Political & Elected Officials
Roger Wilson
Joe Moseley
Ray Beck
Throughout his political career, Roger Wilson championed the “Four E’s.” Economic development, education, efficiency in government and the elderly. He began his career in public service as a school teacher in Columbia, then moved to the political arena as Boone County collector, Missouri state senator and lieutenant governor. When Gov. Mel Carnahan perished in a plane crash, Wilson became governor of Missouri. As a state senator, he sponsored the Excellence in Education Act and the Gifted Education Bill, and introduced legislation to make elderly abuse a specific crime with tougher penalties. The Roger B. Wilson Boone County Government Center located on Walnut Street in downtown Columbia was named in recognition of his myriad accomplishments.
When did you first hear Joe Moseley’s name? Was it during his time as Boone County prosecuting attorney or while he was state senator? Could it be from his tenure with Shelter Insurance Companies? Perhaps from his service on a long list of boards and commissions in mid-Missouri, including Woodhaven Learning Center, Columbia Area United Way, Rainbow House and Regional Economic Development Inc.? Wherever you encountered Moseley, you can be sure he was working hard on behalf of his community. He has called Columbia home for more than 60 years, and has dedicated his time to making Boone County the best it can be. In retirement, Moseley enjoys biking, softball, travel and a good beer.
Ray Beck’s career with the City of Columbia lasted more than 45 years. He served as director of the Columbia Public Works Department for two decades before settling in as city manager for 25 years. Columbia and the state of Missouri reaped the rewards of his knowledge. He assisted in the creation of the city’s first bus system, the development of Columbia Regional Airport, the institution of the first storm water and solid waste utilities, and the establishment of the Percent for Art Program, which designates 1 percent of the cost of new city construction or renovation projects to be used for sitespecific public art. Beck retired from public service in 2006 to spend more time with his family. He continues to play a role in the Columbia community through his volunteer efforts.
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INSIDE COLUMBIA DECEMBER 2017