Power Profile: Tim Brinker
Tim Brinker currently serves as Franklin County's presiding commissioner.
As Franklin County, Missouri, experiences steady growth, Presiding Commissioner Tim Brinker is focused on preparing the area for its next chapter while preserving its quality of life.
New residents are arriving in search of safer environments and better infrastructure, and Brinker aims to keep the area’s appeal strong.
“Franklin County really has everything you could want,” Brinker said, noting the area’s workforce, recreational amenities and high level of volunteerism as key reasons it’s an attractive place to call home.
A lifelong resident, Brinker’s public service journey began nearly three decades ago, inspired by his father-in-law, Herb Dill, who served on the Washington City Council. After winning his first election in 1994, Brinker held various leadership roles over the next 17 years, from mayor pro tem to chairs of various boards and committees.
“I found it fascinating how things were decided,” he recalled, remembering the thrill of serving his neighbors and seeing the impact of local decisions.
In 2013, Brinker transitioned to county government after being elected as First District commissioner, and in 2018, Gov. Mike Parson appointed him as presiding commissioner, a role he’s continued to hold after winning re-election. Since then, he’s worked to balance Franklin County’s growth with its small-town values.
Brinker attributes the area’s ability to handle growth in part to a strong partnership with Ameren Missouri. As more people and businesses arrive, the need for reliable infrastructure is paramount, and Ameren Missouri’s investments in the area have been essential.
“We have the grid established,” Brinker said. “I truly am grateful for the conscientious effort that Ameren has taken.”
With a solid electric grid, Franklin County, and Missouri overall, enjoys some of the lowest energy costs in the country, making it even more attractive to newcomers.
In fact, Ameren Missouri’s impact on Franklin County goes beyond energy. Brinker highlighted the company’s collaboration with WEG Transformers USA, which supports local employment and the county’s economic growth.
“It’s just a win-win-win for everybody,” he said, underscoring the importance of partnerships that serve the public and stimulate the local economy.
The Labadie Energy Center, operated by Ameren Missouri, stands as a prominent employer in Franklin County. Brinker said his father worked at the facility until retirement, allowing him to witness firsthand the dedication and pride employees, like his father, bring to their work.
“Ameren’s a great employer here,” he added, emphasizing that projects supported by Ameren Missouri provide lasting benefits to both residents and local businesses.
While Franklin County’s energy infrastructure is strong, Brinker said he sees room for improvement around transportation. As the county’s population continues to grow, enhancing roads and connectivity to the St. Louis area is essential to support sustained development. Brinker said he remains focused on addressing these needs while ensuring the county’s appeal endures.
Outside of his role serving the public, Brinker said he loves to spend time with his wife of more than 30 years, Betsy, and their four children. Brinker said he also enjoys singing in his church choir, golfing, hunting and fishing, which allows him to take advantage of the natural resources in and around Franklin County.
For Brinker, public service is about accountability to those he serves and the satisfaction of making decisions that directly benefit residents.
“The greatest reward about serving at this level is the decisions we make today can literally be implemented tomorrow,” he said.
With Ameren Missouri as a dedicated partner, Brinker said he is optimistic about Franklin County’s future. As long as the county’s growth can be guided thoughtfully, he believes residents will experience the benefits of a thriving community without sacrificing its character.