This afternoon, Joyce Wilson issued the following statement through the city’s Community Newsletter system:
“As you know, on May 20 City Council appointed Tomas Gonzalez as El Paso’s next city manager. I want to congratulate him as he takes over the leadership responsibility for one of the truly great communities in Texas and the U.S. My tenure as City Manager here in El Paso has been one of the most professionally rewarding and personally meaningful experiences of my career. I cannot begin to properly thank the citizens, city employees, current and past mayors, and city councils for your friendship, support, loyalty and dedication to this great city. It has been an honor and privilege to serve as El Paso’s first City Manager, and I take great pride in our collective achievements in moving this city forward. El Paso is an amazing city that has too long been overlooked. Now, thanks to our hard work, dedication, and vision, El Paso can proudly take its appropriate place among the great cities in Texas and Southwest, and be a legitimate competitor in the 21st century global economy.
I wish Mr. Gonzalez the best success, as he becomes the City’s second city manager. I know he will use his talent and expertise to move the organization and community forward to the next level of greatness.
I also want to challenge the citizens and business leaders to stay engaged and insist that the tremendous progress and momentum we now enjoy be sustained and enhanced. Progress is painful at times and change always evokes resistance. We cannot be content to sit on the sidelines and allow others to define our destiny. We all must remain vigilant to ensure that the plans now in place are properly executed as we envisioned.
My best to you always,
Joyce”