David E. Waters

Background

About David E. Waters

I am a licensed attorney in both Kansas and Missouri, specializing in real estate, governmental, business, health care, and the hospitality industries. I proudly serve as the Managing Partner for the Overland Park, Kansas, office of Spencer Fane LLP. In my real estate and business practice, I assist clients in connection with all phases of commercial, retail and industrial development including leasing, land use, governmental approvals and public incentives. I maintain an active practice in the architecture/engineering/construction industry, advising on design and construction projects and delivery methods. I have been elected as a Fellow in the American College of Real Estate Lawyers (ACREL), the industry's highest honor. My municipal and public law practice extends to local cities (as city attorney and as special counsel) and school districts, and I provide counsel with respect to governmental authority and procedures, economic development, legislative policy and administrative enforcement. I am a member of the board of directors of the City Attorneys Association of Kansas. I am an elected official myself, serving in my second four-year term as the Mayor for Westwood, Kansas, in the Kansas City area. I currently serve as the President of the Kansas Mayors Association. Prior to becoming mayor, I served on the Westwood City Council, the Westwood Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals, and on the 47th and Mission Road Area Redevelopment and Management Committee. I am a recognized leader in my community, and I help my clients develop important relationships with decision-makers and thought-leaders. In 2019, I was recognized by Ingram’s Magazine as one of the “50 Kansans You Should Know.” In 2024, I was named a "NextGen Leader" by the Kansas City Business Journal. I have been selected to Leadership Kansas, and in 2015 received the Kansas State University College of Arts & Sciences Young Alumni Award. I have also served on the College’s Arts & Sciences Alumni Advisory Council. In 2024, I was also named to Kansas State University's Pre-Law Advisory Council. I am actively involved with the Northeast Johnson County Chamber of Commerce, having served for many years on its Board of Directors, and I previously served as the Chairman of the Board. I also serve as the Chair of the Kansas State Affairs Committee for the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce. I am married, the father of two sons, and have completed two marathons. You can follow me on Twitter @davidewaters where I regularly provide professional content and commentary.