This article continues the City of St. Robert’s Candidate Spotlight series. Over the coming weeks, we are highlighting the individuals who have filed to run for Alderman in the upcoming municipal election. The purpose of this series is to provide residents with an opportunity to learn more about the candidates who have stepped forward to serve their ward.
Each spotlight features the candidate’s responses to a questionnaire so residents can hear directly from them in their own words.
For Ward 3, Michael Hanks has filed to serve and is seeking election to continue representing this ward.
About Michael
Michael Hanks grew up in Sikeston, Missouri and has long had an appreciation for the Ozarks. Over the years, he frequently visited the St. Robert and Fort Leonard Wood area for business and developed a strong connection to the community.
When he and his wife decided to move back to Missouri, they chose St. Robert as their permanent home. He has lived in St. Robert for about a year and a half and says he and his family are proud to be part of the community.
Professionally, Michael currently serves as the Director of Business Development at a personal protective equipment company.
Why He Is Running
Michael shared that he originally volunteered and was appointed to fill the Ward 3 Alderman seat when Mayor James Breckinridge was elected mayor last year.
He said serving the community has been important to him, and he chose to run for the seat in order to continue giving back to the city where he lives.
Community and Personal Interests
Michael describes himself as a lifelong Kansas City Chiefs fan and enjoys following college football.
He and his family have enjoyed visiting Branson for many years and have been Silver Dollar City season pass holders for more than 30 years.
He also enjoys Christmas traditions and often watches Hallmark Christmas movies. Another personal interest of his is military history, and he recently finished reading a book about the history of Fort Leonard Wood.
Strengths and Community Involvement
Michael says his background includes both military and civilian leadership experience. He believes those experiences, along with what he describes as a Missouri common sense approach, help guide his perspective on the issues facing St. Robert today and in the future.
He is a lifetime member of the Fort Leonard Wood Association of the United States Army chapter and a life member of the Military Police Regimental Association.
Michael has also volunteered locally, including helping with the first St. Robert Christmas Kickoff Spectacular and tree lighting ceremony, as well as the 2025 Salute to the Season event at the community center.
His View on Leadership
Michael believes good leadership means being humble, serving with integrity, and putting service to others before self.
Looking Ahead
When asked what he would like to see St. Robert protect or build upon in the coming years, Michael highlighted the importance of green spaces and areas that provide activities and opportunities for residents to gather and enjoy the community.
Contact Information
Residents of Ward 3 may contact Michael Hanks by email:
Contact information provided is shared publicly as part of the Candidate Spotlight series.