Round Rock City Manager Laurie Hadley is set to retire this December after a career spanning 37 years in local government, nearly 14 of those spent at the helm of Round Rock's administration. Known for steering the suburban community through significant growth, Hadley steps down leaving a legacy of infrastructural expansions and quality-of-life enhancements. "Throughout my tenure, we have faced numerous challenges and celebrated many successes together," Hadley expressed in an email to City staff, as detailed by the official city announcement.
It was under her guidance that the voter-approved 2013 GO Bond led to major parks and recreation improvements, among other critical infrastructure projects. Working through her office, she played a significant role in establishing the largest indoor water park resort by Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Round Rock. Bringing about a transformation that saw the city solidify its place as an economic nucleus in Central Texas, Round Rock Mayor Craig Morgan praised Hadley's ability to turn the vision of the city into actionable plans, saying, "Laurie’s impact on Round Rock is undeniable, and her contributions will be remembered for years to come," as stated in the city's press release.
Looking to fill the approaching vacancy, the Round Rock City Council has an eye on Assistant City Manager Brooks Bennett. Starting in the communications and marketing department of the city in 2004, Bennett climbed up the ranks to become Chief Information Technology Officer before moving into city management in 2015. Bennett is set to inherit a well-prepped stage for continued growth and innovation in Round Rock's community development, complete with a backdrop of legislative projects and downtown revitalization efforts he has been instrumental in overseeing.
With roots running deeply into the local soil, in his dedication to the city, said "I am excited to work with our top-notch staff and amazing City Council to continue growing Round Rock as a great community while preserving the character that makes it unique," in a testament to his commitment, Brooks Bennett told Round Rock Texas. His succession also resonates with a familial echo; his father, Bob Bennett, once held the city manager position from 1979 to 2003, playing a key part in foundational developments within Round Rock. The City Council will vote on Bennett’s appointment in a meeting that had been scheduled on August 22.
As Hadley pivots towards a retirement filled with family time and personal pursuits, the community of Round Rock looks on at a horizon where the groundwork laid by her leadership invites the next chapter of civic engagement and progress. Bennett stands ready to embrace these challenges with a legacy-minded but forward-thinking approach, ensuring the city's unique character is nurtured as its social and economic fabric evolves.
