Office Breakdown: What Does Lubbock’s City Manager Actually Do?

When we think of local city office-holders, we all know about mayors right off the bat. Some of us may even go one step further and think of city council, but very few ever mention the city manager, even fewer know what this position even does.

What Are the Duties of a City Manager?

For those who may not know, the city manager acts as an arm of the city council, meaning that when policies need enforcement or decisions need to be passed down to departments across the city, it's the manager's job to step in.

According to the City of Lubbock website, one of the biggest functions of a city manager is to prepare and submit a balanced budget for the city council. This position also helps the city council in formulating policies, goals, and other objectives on their agenda.

In case you were wondering, no, citizens do not vote for a city manager. Instead, this position is appointed by the city council.

So, who is Lubbock's City Manager? Well, let me introduce you to W. Jarrett Atkinson.

Who is Lubbock's City Manager?

Before becoming Lubbock's City Manager, Atkinson was actually Deputy City Manager of Amarillo in 2004 before becoming City Manager years later in 2010.

His tenure in Amarillo had him overseeing more than 2,100 employees and an annual budget of about $336 million. In November 2016, Atkinson was appointed Lubbock City Manager.

In total, Atkinson has over two decades of experience in managing and upholding policies for cities and public entities. His educational career began with a Bachelor's Degree in Police Science from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, and ended with a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Texas Tech University.

Any citizens with questions or input surrounding the multitude of aspects in city organization and its operations are invited to contact Atkinson via the info located on the city government webpage.