Betty James Knight
Betty James Knight, 76
Betty spent much of her career devoted to public service. She began as a Girl Scout Leader, started the Picture Lady Program at her daughter's school and was involved with the Athletic Association in Platte City. In 1989 she became Platte County Deputy Treasurer and was elected to the Platte County R-3 School Board in 1991. She was elected as Presiding Commissioner in 1994 and served the county for 4-4year terms, retiring in 2010. During her tenure, a Strategic Planning task force was convened and a plan for the county was put in place. Planning included a road plan, a land-use plan, a park plan and a Convention and Visitor’s Bureau was created, along with many other items. For the first time, Betty arranged for Platte Senior Services and the Platte County Senior Fund to have a home and provided ongoing support and advocacy for organizations serving seniors. Betty also served as President of Missouri Association of Counties and served on the MARC Board of Directors, Chair in 1999-2000. In 2007-2008 Betty was elected President of the National Association of Regional Councils. Today Betty is active in community activities including the Platte City Study Club (GFWC), Miizzou Alumni Association, the McDonald’s charities and the Platte Purchase DAR. Betty received the DAR’s National Women in American History Award in 2015. Betty also spends time with her family, 2 daughters and son-in-laws, 3 granddaughters and her husband or 56 years, Bill.
