Round Rock Attorney Stephan 'Steve' Sheets retiring after 45 years with city

Round Rock City Attorney Stephan "Steve" Sheets will step down as city attorney effective Sept. 30, after 45 years of serving the city in its legal endeavors.

Sheets began serving as the city's attorney on Oct. 3, 1977, and will remain as legal counsel for the Round Rock Transportation and Economic Development Corporation and Brushy Creek Regional Utility Authority as the founder and managing partner of law firm Sheets & Crossfield LLC, according to the city. Stephanie Sandre, also of Sheets & Crossfield, will take over Sheets' role as city attorney following his retirement.

During the Sept. 22 meeting of the Round Rock City Council, former and current city employees shared fond memories of working with Sheets over the years.

“You’re an amazing human and truly have a servant’s heart,” City Manager Laurie Hadley said. “I’m so glad I got to spend the last 11 and a half years with you.”

Utilities Department Director Michael Thane said Sheets has been instrumental in advancing services during his tenure as city attorney.

"Steve was a guy that not only helped me in my career with the city, but he has been instrumental in utilities and environmental services from the deals we've done," Thane said. "He's helped utilities, but he's helped the city in so many ways. He's the only city attorney I've ever known."

After receiving warm words from his colleagues, Sheets said he has enjoyed every day of his time as city attorney.

“It’s been a tremendous honor and privilege to serve the city’s elected officials and staff as well as the citizens of this city," Sheets said. "It has truly been an awesome ride.”