[Press Release] : City Manager’s Statement

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: Toni Messina, Director, Public Communications - (573)
874-7660

City Manager’s Statement

COLUMBIA, MO (November 30, 2009) - Columbia City Manager Bill Watkins
issued the following statement today, regarding the family of J. Kraig
Kahler.

“I issue this statement on behalf of the City of Columbia with
stunned sadness. The tragedy involving former Water and Light Director
Kraig Kahler, his wife Karen, their children and her grandmother is
almost beyond comprehension.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the survivors, the extended family
and their colleagues and friends. As the family makes arrangements for
services and other remembrances, we will act in accordance with their
wishes.

“Many of us knew Kraig and Karen well. Karen and the children
continued to live in Columbia. She worked at the Columbia Activities and
Recreation Center, on a contract basis, as a personal trainer and
fitness coach. Both of them were part of the City family.

“This loss affects all of us. Counseling is available through the
City’s Employee Assistance Program for those employees who wish to use
the service, and I am available to any employee who needs additional
help or information.

“We have clarified with the Kansas Attorney General’s office that
they prefer to be the source of any comments on the case that they are
handling. Out of respect for the family, and to avoid jeopardizing any
further legal proceedings, whether here or in Kansas, I decline further
comment at this time.

“To restate the conditions of Kraig’s employment with the City, I
asked for and received his resignation last September. His difficult
family issues, in my opinion, affected his focus on the Columbia Water
and Light Department in a way that was not likely to change in the near
future.”

- 30 -
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