Gary Palmer begins role as new city administrator in Montgomery

The city of Montgomery welcomed its new city administrator, Gary Palmer, on Jan. 6. Palmer was appointed to the position on Dec. 13.

In an email Jan. 23, Palmer said he has a background in urban planning, economic development and local government management.

"Over the past 25 years, I’ve worked for cities in Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee, Georgia and now Texas," he said. "I am a certified city planner through the American Institute of Certified Planners and a credentialed manager through the International City/County Managers Association. I am also a veteran with 10 years of service in the United States Marine Corps."

Palmer said his last city leadership position was as city administrator for the city of Roswell in Georgia. He chose to relocate to Montgomery because of its small-town feel, he said.

"I have worked with all sizes of cities," he said. "My preference is to work in small teams with small organizations that can be more nimble, more interpersonal and mission-focused. Montgomery has an amazing amount of potential to be the destination in this region. I feel I am a good fit for the upcoming work, and my talents will serve well in addressing the needs of the city council."

Palmer said he wants to be in a city where he can provide value to the community.

"I feel I can do that in Montgomery," he said. "I am looking forward to working with the council on their priorities and objectives for the year. I think we have a lot of great work ahead of us, and it's going to be a busy year."