Melba Curls is a lifelong resident of Kansas City's 3rd District where she and her late husband, State Senator Phil B. Curls, raised their four children, Phillip II, Michael, Monica and Louis.

Melba has been employed in the public sector for most of her life, having worked for city, state and federal governments.  She previously worked for the City of Kansas City in the Personnel and Legal Departments as well as a staff assistant for Mayor Charles Wheeler.

After her years employed at City Hall, she was elected to the Missouri House of Representatives in 1999 where she focused on identifying issues that affected Kansas City and worked with her colleagues to develop solutions and positive change.  While serving in the House for more than six years, she was appointed chairperson of the Committee on Urban Affairs (2000-2002) and was vice-chair of the Ethics Commission from 2004-2006. 

Most recently, Melba returned home to Kansas City when she was elected to the Third District at Large seat on the Kansas City, Missouri City Council.  She is currently serving as Vice Chair of the Housing Committee and Vice Chair of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.  She also serves on the Legislative Committee and Public Safety and Neighborhoods Committee.

Councilwoman Curls has a long history of public service to the community and she continues to remain engaged in a variety of philanthropic organizations as well as civic activities.  Affiliated organizations include: American Jazz Museum, Board Member; DeLaSalle Education Center, Board Member; Friends of the Bruce R. Watkins Cultural Heritage Center, Board Member; Greater Kansas City Women's Political Caucus, Member; International Visitors Council of Greater Kansas City, Member; Jackson County Board of Domestice Violence Shelters, Board Member; Metropolitan Ambulance Services Trust, Board Member; National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials, Regional Director; Saint Louis Catholic Church, Member; United Minority Media Association, Charter Board Member.