League City city manager recognized for influence on public service

League City City Manager John Baumgartner was among five government officials honored March 11 for their influence on public service in the Greater Houston area.

Baumgartner was recognized during the 11th annual University of Houston Master of Public Administration Program’s Public Officials of the Year luncheon, according to a League City press release.

Other public officials recognized include Harris County Commissioner Jack Cagle, Houston Director of Public Works Carol Ellinger Haddock, Galveston Assistant City Manager for Finance Mike Loftin and District EMS Chief of Brazoria County Tim Welch.

“These officials exhibit qualities consistent with those of the MPA Program: trust, accountability, performance, ethical decision-making and crossing jurisdictional boundaries to solve problems,” MPA Director James Thurmond said, according to the release.

The MPA Program each year recognizes local officials who exemplify ethical decision making; a commitment to the welfare of residents beyond personal, professional and political motives; and the ability to encourage and maintain supportive relationship across jurisdictional boundaries, the release reads.

Baumgartner has served as League City city manager for seven years. He is responsible for city operations per policies set by League City City Council. A professional engineer, Baumgartner has over 30 years of local government experience in Texas and has been designated as a national Public Works Leadership Fellow by the American Public Works Association and as a credentialed manager by the International City/County Management Association, according to the release.