(WARRENSBURG, Mo.) – The city of Warrensburg recently hired a new building official.

Brett Penrose, previously the city’s community development project manager, replaces Roland Kitchen, who retired at the end of July. Penrose began his new duties Nov. 21.

“Brett emerged as the most qualified and best fit for our community following a nationwide search,” said Barbara Carroll, director of community development, in a news release. “He has been an asset to our builders, homeowners, staff and citizens for the last 15 years and will no doubt continue to be that as the Building Official.”

Penrose has a bachelor’s degree in public relations and a master’s degree in public services administration with a specialty in safety management, both from the University of Central Missouri.

“I look forward to working with homeowners, business owners, contractors and city staff as we continue to make safe building practices a priority in our growing community,” Penrose said in the news release.

For more information, contact community development at 660-747-9135 or visit www.warrensburg-mo.com.