Vice Mayor Dean Hayse Honored with 2025 Rob Gill Community Spirit Award
The City of Independence proudly congratulates Vice Mayor Dean Hayse on being named the 2025 recipient of the Rob Gill Community Spirit Award, presented by City Manager Kelly Passauer on behalf of the Montgomery County Action Council (MCAC) during their annual meeting and awards ceremony held this evening at the Coffeyville Country Club.
Presented annually at the MCAC Meeting, this prestigious award honors individuals who reflect Rob Gill’s legacy of servant leadership, collaborative spirit, and unwavering dedication to improving lives throughout Montgomery County.
Vice Mayor Hayse exemplifies these values through both vision and action. He championed the Neighborhood Exterior Grant Program, which has become a key driver in the City Commission’s top initiative—housing. Over the past four years, the program has leveraged more than $700,000 in improvements to 73 homes, while utilizing just $250,000 in City funding—a powerful example of fiscal vision paired with meaningful neighborhood impact.
Hayse also plays a vital role in Love Independence Day, which recently celebrated its 10th year. Through his involvement as a board member of Community Mission for Improved Housing, he helps coordinate and participate in volunteer efforts to improve homes across the community, rolling up his sleeves to work alongside others in making visible, lasting improvements.
One of Dean’s most visible recent efforts is the restoration of a historic home along North Penn Avenue. This project, which he supports hands-on each week, is being completed through a partnership with the City of Independence, the Independence Housing Authority, and dedicated volunteers.
Beyond housing, Vice Mayor Hayse has shown a deep commitment to community engagement. He has mentored emerging leaders through the Leadership Refresh program, served on the First United Methodist Church Board, led as Rotary President, performed as a lead in Neewollah musicals, and even served as a Cubmaster.
Whether he’s swinging a hammer, guiding policy, or inspiring others, Dean leads with humility, energy, and a deep love for this community.
Congratulations, Vice Mayor Hayse, and thank you for your extraordinary service to Independence and Montgomery County. You are truly deserving of this honor.
Please join us in celebrating this well-deserved recognition!