Paul Stevens to start as Highland Village city manager in October; retirement celebration planned for Michael Leavitt

Rowlett’s deputy city manager will become the top executive for the city of Highland Village after clearing a final series of procedural steps.

Highland Village City Council on Aug. 25 approved an employment agreement with Paul Stevens, who is now set to replace retiring City Manager Michael Leavitt on Oct. 1.

The city also confirmed it has completed its background check on Stevens, one of the last steps before he could be appointed to the position.

“I am very honored and excited about joining the City of Highland Village as the City Manager," Stevens said in a statement earlier in August, when he was named the sole finalist for the job. "Highland Village is an incredibly unique city with an excellent quality of life. I’m looking forward to working with the City Council and city staff and I can’t wait to be a part of this wonderful community."

City spokesperson Laurie Mullens said that staff is still processing Stevens’ employment agreement. The terms were not immediately available Aug. 26, she said.

Stevens has experience as chief executive for multiple cities, serving previously as interim city manager for Forney and city manager for Waxahachie. He also worked as city administrator for Ovilla, director of economic development for Burleson and as a senior budget analyst in Dallas.

Leavitt announced his retirement in March after two decades with the city.

The Highland Village Business Association will hold a retirement celebration for Leavitt on Sept. 8 at Doubletree Ranch Park. Guests can register to attend the celebration by Sept. 4 at this link.