George Purefoy, Frisco’s first and only city manager, is projected to retire in June 2022, according to a June 17 city news release announcing changes in leadership.

Purefoy was appointed as city manager in November 1987, according to the city website, when Frisco voters adopted its initial home rule charter. He has overseen execution of laws and the day-to-day administrative affairs for 34 years.

News of Purefoy’s projected retirement follows Ron Patterson announcing his return to City Hall at the annual State of the City luncheon hosted by the Frisco Chamber of Commerce. Patterson will begin transitioning from his role as Frisco Economic Development Corp. president on June 21 to serve as deputy city manager. Current Deputy City Manager Nell Lange is retiring after 20 years working in Frisco, according to the city.

The city manager said the leadership realignment will safeguard the future of Frisco.

“When I do leave, this alignment provides a great performer with the knowledge of what’s been done in the past to provide the new city manager the best structure for success,” Purefoy said in the release.

Patterson will join Henry Hill as a deputy city manager, according to the release, and will oversee development services, engineering services and economic development.

Lange has led Frisco to “financial excellence,” Purefoy said in the release, having administered the city’s annual budget and debt service in her career. Lange was instrumental in leading Frisco to top municipal bond ratings and financial transparency awards from the state, the release added.

“The personnel Nell has brought on board over the years have proven what a great leader she is,” Purefoy said. “As great of a leader as she’s been for Frisco, Nell is an even better person. She will be sorely missed, but we wish her the absolute best as she goes forward.”