Mike Murray becomes city manager

Lindale — The city of Lindale announced the appointment of Mike Murray as its new city manager.

Murray brings more than 30 years of local government, public administration, economic development, infrastructure planning, financial management, and community leadership experience to the role. He most recently served as city manager for Bridgeport, where he oversaw municipal operations, led a team of department heads and employees, managed a $30 million annual municipal budget, and guided major capital improvement efforts including water and wastewater projects, street improvements, parks planning, and long-range strategic initiatives.

As city manager, Murray will serve as Lindale’s chief administrative and executive officer, working under the direction of the mayor and city council to implement council policies, manage daily city operations, oversee the municipal budget, support long-term planning, and ensure efficient delivery of public services.

“Mike Murray brings the kind of experience and steady leadership we were looking for in Lindale’s next city manager,” Mayor Gavin Rasco said. “His years of service in local government, along with his background in administration, economic development, infrastructure, and community planning, stood out throughout this process. We believe his experience and steady leadership will serve Lindale well as we continue to plan for the future while preserving the character and values that make our community special.”

Murray’s career has included service throughout Texas as city manager for Bridgeport and Rusk, city administrator and economic development corporation executive director for Clyde, city administrator for Westworth Village, and community development manager for the East Texas Council of Governments. 

His experience includes managing municipal budgets, leading infrastructure and capital improvement projects, supporting business recruitment and retention, coordinating with state and regional agencies, and promoting transparent communication with residents and stakeholders.

He holds a Master of Public Administration from The University of Texas at Tyler and a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration from Stephen F. Austin State University. Murray is also a United States Army veteran and has been active in numerous professional and civic organizations, including the Texas City Managers Association, Texas Municipal League, Texas Economic Development Council, Texas Water Utilities Association, and local chambers of commerce.

“I am truly honored and excited for the opportunity to serve as city manager for the city of Lindale,” said Murray. “Lindale is a special community, and I cannot wait to get back to East Texas to work alongside Mayor Rasco, the city council, city staff, and residents. 

“I plan to bring my whole heart, my full effort, and a strong commitment to this role every day. I know public service requires humility, trust, and a willingness to listen and learn, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Lindale as we move forward together.”

The city of Lindale engaged the East Texas Council of Governments to provide professional executive recruitment services for the city manager search.

Murray’s first day with the city of Lindale will be Aug. 24.

SOURCE City of Lindale