Clayton assistant city manager Myron Burr, Jr. may be new to the role, but his passion for public service runs deep. The 35-year-old Indianapolis native joined the city in late September, bringing with him a background in higher education and organizational leadership.
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Organization: City of Clayton
Title: Assistant City Manager
Age: 35
Hometown: Indianapolis, Indiana
Education: Bachelor’s in Communications, DePauw University; Master’s in Higher Education, Lindenwood University; Master’s in Public Policy Administration, University of Missouri–St. Louis (expected 2026)
Interests / Hobbies: I’m a proud Indiana sports fan—Go Hoosiers, Colts, and Pacers! Lately, I’ve really enjoyed getting into gardening. It’s peaceful, grounding, and a great way to stay connected to nature.
What motivated you to get involved in this work/community/activity? Service and relationship building have always been at the heart of my career. As I dove deeper into public administration through my studies at UMSL, I realized city management was the perfect intersection of service, leadership, and community engagement. It’s a role that allows me to help make a tangible difference in people’s everyday lives.
What values or principles guide how you show up in this role/community? I believe deeply in the power of community. My approach centers on service to others, building authentic relationships, and fostering collaboration. When people come together around shared goals and mutual respect, real progress happens.
What’s the most enjoyable aspect? I’m still fairly new to this role, having started in late September, but I’ve really enjoyed meeting my colleagues and our local elected officials. There’s a true spirit of collaboration and excellence here in Clayton that makes coming to work every day rewarding.
Can you briefly share a few standout memories? One of my favorite parts of onboarding has been exploring the city itself. I’ve made it a point to visit a new area of Clayton every day, just to get a feel for the neighborhoods, parks, and businesses that make this place so vibrant. Even though Clayton covers only about 2.5 square miles, there’s so much to see, do, and appreciate!
Can you share an insight about this role that most people don’t know? Many people aren’t familiar with what a city manager does. In short, the city manager is appointed by the mayor and board of aldermen to handle the professional, day-to-day administration of the city. While the elected officials set policy and focus on long-term goals, the manager and staff put those policies into action, overseeing operations, preparing the budget, and ensuring city services run smoothly.
What’s one key piece of advice you’ve embraced? “A generous person will prosper.” That wisdom reminds me that strong communities are built through generosity of time, spirit, and collaboration. Our communities are better when we all work together for the common good. Everyone benefits.
What’s the greatest challenge? One of the greatest challenges in building community today is overcoming the hesitation to engage with people we don’t yet know. My grandmother used to say, “Everybody’s a stranger until you get to meet them!” I carry that lesson with me and try to create spaces where people can connect, talk, and build understanding and lasting relationships.
Where do you find inspiration? I draw inspiration from the people around me. Across the St. Louis region, there are so many passionate individuals doing meaningful work: teachers, volunteers, business owners, neighbors. Whether it’s a conversation at a local event or a chance encounter at the grocery store, those interactions keep me energized and inspired. You’ve got to get out and talk to people!
What are your future plans or ambitions? I view every day as a learning opportunity. My focus is on continual growth both personally and professionally. I want to keep learning, serve with integrity, and become a little better than I was yesterday.
