submitted by Riley County, written by Vivienne Leyva
RILEY COUNTY - Riley County is pleased to announce the appointment of Bryant Parker as the new Deputy Counselor. With an extensive background in law, public service, and education, Parker is well-equipped to provide exceptional legal counsel to the Board of County Commissioners and County Department Heads.
Parker’s distinguished career includes serving in the United States Army Reserves from August 2003 to August 2009 and working in private practice with his twin brother from 2008 to 2024. Additionally, he has shared his expertise by teaching courses in State and Local Government Law and State and Local Economic Development at Wichita State University, and worked at several law firms throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area where he focused on real estate transactions, finance law, government law, and contract law practice.
His educational achievements are notable. Parker holds a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) with Dean’s Honors from Washburn University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Wichita State University, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. He has also earned multiple advanced degrees: a Master of Law (LL.M.) in Urban Affairs and a Master of Law (LL.M.) in Taxation from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law, and a Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.) in Land Use Regulation from the University of Kansas School of Law. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Finance (M.S.F.) at the Bloch School of Business, University of Missouri-Kansas City, with an anticipated completion date of May 2025.
“Residents and businesses want a local government that works with them to help them accomplish their goals in the right way. I think my experience in private practice and government law gives me an important and useful perspective that will benefit the people of Riley County,” said Parker.
In his new role, Parker will assist the Riley County Counselor, Clancy Holeman, in providing legal counsel, handling contractual agreements, benefit districts, human resource matters, and the annual filing of tax foreclosure cases. He will also represent Riley County in civil suits and actions, draw up contracts, and furnish written opinions on legal matters.
“I am honored to join Riley County and look forward to contributing to the positive environment in the Counselor’s Office,” Bryant said. “My goal is to empower our Department Heads and continue the legacy of excellence established by my predecessors, Clancy Holeman and Craig Cox.”
Parker’s dedication to public service is deeply rooted in his family heritage. His parents practiced local government law for 40 years, his twin brother works in the same field, and he is a fourth-generation public servant. His great-grandfather served on a local township board, and his grandfather on a school board.
Parker’s commitment to public service is more than a profession; it is a calling. “Being in service is not just a job; it is a noble mission,” he said.
Clancy Holeman, County Counselor and Bryant’s new supervisor expressed his enthusiasm for Bryant’s appointment. “We are excited to welcome Bryant to the Riley County team. His impressive resume and extensive relevant experience make him an excellent fit for the Deputy County Counselor position. Bryant's background in law, combined with his dedication to public service, will greatly benefit our organization and the community we serve,” Holeman said.
Riley County is known for its efficiently run government, where every member plays a crucial role in its success. Parker’s appointment underscores the County’s commitment to maintaining high standards of legal counsel and public service.For more information, please contact the Riley County Counselor’s Office at (785) 565-6844 or visit www.rileycountyks.gov.