 Historically a manufacturing center , education is the city 's largest economic sector with Kent State University the city 's , and one of the region 's , largest employers . The Kent City School District and the Kent Free Library provide additional education opportunities and resources . Many of Kent 's demographic elements are influenced by the presence of the university , particularly the median age , median income , and those living below the poverty level . The city is governed by a council @-@ manager system with a city manager , a nine @-@ member city council , and a mayor . Kent has nearly 20 parks and preserves and hosts a number of annual festivals including ones related to Earth Day , folk music , and the U.S. Independence Day . In addition to the Kent State athletic teams , the city also hosts a number of amateur and local sporting events at various times during the year . Kent is part of the Cleveland @-@ Akron media market and is the city of license for three local radio stations and three television stations and includes the regional affiliates for National Public Radio ( NPR ) and the Public Broadcasting Service ( PBS ) . Although most residents commute to work in private vehicles , alternate transportation includes a public bus service and hike @-@ and @-@ bike trails . As the home of the Davey Tree Expert Company , Kent is known as " The Tree City " while residents are referred to as " <unk> " . The city has produced a number of notable individuals , particularly in politics , athletics , and the entertainment industry . 
