City of Tomball hires director of community development

Photo by Michael Baxter

In February, the City of Tomball hired a director of community development—a newly created position filled by Narciso Lira.

Lira, who is the former city engineer in Pearland, will work on advancing capital improvement projects in the city in addition to helping the community and existing businesses grow, according to Tomball Mayor Gretchen Fagan.

"He has experience in both the public and private sectors and has been instrumental in making improvements in the development process [in Pearland]," she said.

Lira will play a critical role in all capital improvement projects, such as the extension of Medical Complex Drive to Cherry Street and the creation of a new drainage channel to eliminate onsite detention and improve drainage downtown, according to Fagan. His department will take on engineering and code enforcement for the projects.

Lira said he decided to come to Tomball because he saw opportunity for growth.

"I think Tomball is in the position to take advantage of some regional growth in the next several years and to put itself in a position to be a highly desirable community for people to travel to and live [in]," he said.

While working in Pearland, Lira oversaw the implementation of capital projects to make sure they complied with city codes and budgets. He also did a considerable amount of work with the permits and inspections department, he said.

"I hope I can use the experience I've developed along with the team we have here to foster a relationship with the city," he said. "I look forward to being a part of the community and lending a hand the best I can."