The San Jacinto River Authority named Aubrey Spear as its new general manager Nov. 15. He will assume the role in January.

The SJRA monitors water quality in the San Jacinto basin, provides water to municipal utility districts and other entities, and operates the Lake Conroe Dam.

Former General Manager Jace Houston announced his resignation from the authority in May. Ed Shackelford has been the acting general manager since June.

The overview

According to a news release, Spear will collaborate with the SJRA’s various operating divisions to oversee the development and implementation of the authority’s vision, mission and strategic goals. This includes working with the following divisions:
  • Lake Conroe
  • Woodlands
  • Groundwater Reduction Plan
  • Flood Management
  • Highlands
  • General and Administrative Services
He will also oversee capital improvement plans, external affairs, leadership development and budgeting.


What they’re saying

"After a thorough search, the SJRA Board of Directors is proud to welcome Aubrey to SJRA," SJRA Board President Ronnie Anderson said in the news release. "Aubrey’s extensive experience in water utility management, water and wastewater infrastructure projects, and stakeholder relationships make him a great fit for our team.”

“I am excited to join the dedicated team at SJRA,” Spear said in the news release. “I look forward to collaborating with key stakeholders including employees, customers, and elected officials to determine major areas of focus for the authority moving forward. I am passionate about implementing the river authority’s vision to provide reliable, cost-efficient, and sustainable water resource management that supports the significant growth in the region while earning the trust and confidence of our customers and community.”

The backstory


Spear was previously director of water utilities for the city of Lubbock for 16 years where he led the city’s Water Utilities Department of more than 200 employees, according to a news release. He has served as a liaison to many other water boards and advisory commissions and served on the executive committee of the Upper Brazos Regional Flood Planning Group, according to the release.

Spear has also worked on public relations and marketing activities as well as projects such as Lubbock’s surface water supply reservoir, Lake Alan Henry, according to the release.

Editor's note: The first name of the former SJRA general manager has been corrected to Jace.