INDEPENDENCE, Mo. – On January 16, 2026, Professional Firefighters of Independence IAFF Local 781 became the latest union to officially endorse Kevin King, former business manager of Roofers Local 20, in his bid to become the next mayor of Independence, Mo.
The union posted on Facebook, announcing that they proudly endorse “Kevin King for Mayor of Independence. Kevin has consistently supported the firefighters who serve this city and understands the demanding, dangerous work we do every day. He knows that protecting our community means supporting firefighters and ensuring a fair, working wage for those who put their lives on the line. Kevin King is a proven partner who listens, works collaboratively, and stands with labor.”
CONTRACT PROBLEMS
On January 20, 2026, IAFF Local 781 President Mike Veit testified before the Independence, Mo. City Council in a bid to inform the general public of frustrations with ongoing contract negotiations that have drug on since originally beginning in December 18, 2024. Members of the union filled the audience wearing yellow union shirts.
Local 781 called the city’s approach “unacceptable” and “disrespectful,” warning of ongoing delays impact morale, retention, and staffing levels of the department. Veit warned that 20 out of 170 of the firefighters with the fire department are actively considering leaving.
“The public has a right to know that their fire department is being diminished and their safety being placed at risk,” Mike Veit warned in his testimony.
Kevin King could be seen in the audience donning a IAFF Local 781 shirt and supporting the union firefighters.
“We just want a fair and livable wage,” added Veit.
Tristin Amezcua-Hogan is the Editor of The Labor Beacon and a member of LIUNA Local 264. Tristin also serves as the Director of Communications for the Greater Kansas City AFL-CIO and the Chair of the Kansas City Regional Transit Alliance.
Tristin grew up as the son of a UA Local 669 member in Tecumseh, KS and the great-nephew of George C. Amis, longtime leader of the United Rubberworkers (now USW Local 307) in Kansas. Growing up in rural Kansas as the child of teen parents, Tristin quickly came to appreciate the life-changing benefit of a union job.
Tristin and his partner, Rebeca Amezcua-Hogan, are residents of the Westside, Kansas City, MO's historic Mexican neighborhood. They are proud members of Kansas City's New Reform Temple.
