Leander, Texas, has chosen Todd Parton as its new city manager, a decision that became official on Thursday during a city council meeting. Parton, with over 19 years of city management experience, is set to step into his role on April 16, as stated in a release by the city of Leander. "I am honored that the Mayor and City Council have placed their confidence in me to serve the City of Leander at such a critical time and look forward to engaging with the community to ensure a bright future for all of our citizens,” Parton said, according to the City of Leander.
Having a master’s degree in Public Administration and a bachelor’s in Emergency Administration and Planning from the University of North Texas, Parton leaves behind his assistant city manager position in Lake Elsinore, California, to return to Texas. Leander Mayor Christine DeLisle said in a statement obtained by KXAN, "We are thrilled to bring Mr. Parton on as our next city manager. We had a strong group of candidates, but his keen understanding of strategic planning and fiscal management makes him a great fit to lead the City of Leander through our next phase of development."
The job of managing a rapidly growing city comes with a hefty paycheck; Parton's five-year contract ensures him an annual salary of $275,000. His duties will include overseeing city operations and personnel, executing city policies and procedures, and handling the city's budget. Parton, taking the reins from Interim City Manager Isaac Turner, was selected after a nationwide search conducted by recruiting firm Strategic Government Resources, which saw 71 candidates from 19 states applying for the role.
During his previous tenures, Parton helped guide other fast-growing communities like the City of Beaumont and Kerrville in Texas and Cibolo from 2004 to 2009. His skills in strategic planning and fiscal management have been praised as drivers of balanced growth and prosperity in these areas. "And on a personal note, my wife, Mandy, and our two children, Sam and Ellie, are excited to start our next chapter in Leander,” Parton said, as per the City of Leander, bringing his family into the narrative as he steps into the future of Leander with optimism.
