Former IMG head seeks county seat

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. -- Steve Klika, a familiar figure who left the motorcoach industry early this year to manage a pair of staffing companies here, is running for political office and former coach industry colleagues are being asked to support his effort.

Klika headed the International Motor Coach Group for 11 years, and because earlier in his career he managed public transit agencies he became a key figure during negotiations five years ago to develop a new federal rule that restricts public transit systems from providing charter bus service.

After the rule was adopted, Klika went on the road with others to explain it to motorcoach operators across the U.S.

Now, Klika is running for one of seven commissioner seats in Johnson County, the suburb of Kansas City where he lives. He came out on top in his primary race against three opponents, but faces a run-off election in November.

Although Klika left IMG and the motorcoach industry (see Feb. issue of Bus & Motorcoach News), "he has continued to support us on a personal level," said Brian Scott, president of Escot Bus Lines in Largo, Fla., a former chairman of IMG.

"Whether as a sounding board for bids, sending business to us through his involvement with the school board (in Johnson County), the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, the (local) convention and visitors associations, or promoting the charter issue on the transit front, his commitment to and close involvement with our success lives on," said Scott.

"Transportation is in Steves blood and it would not surprise me one day that we are directly working with him again. But, most important, he continues to be a friend and one we can count on at any time."

Scott also noted that because of Klika both Kansas City-area public transit systems are out of the charter business.

"He has continued to refer business our way, and has successfully promoted privatization throughout the K.C. metro area -- both in transit and schools," said Scott.

Scott and his father, Lewis, are leading a motorcoach industry fundraising effort to help him during the final run.

Persons interested in supporting Klika can send a check, for up to $500, to: Mike Seitz, Treasurer, Klika for Johnson County, 9007 W. 157th Terrace, Overland Park, KS 66221.

Credit card donations can be made at www.SteveKlika.com.

Klika has served the past eight years on the board of the Blue Valley School District and was board president during the 2009-10 and 2010-11 school years. He holds an MBA from Oklahoma City University.