City Manager

The City of Longview operates under the Council-Manager form of government. The City Manager is hired by the City Council to to serve the Council and the community. Similar to the position of a chief executive officer in the business world, the City Manager is responsible for the management and operations of the City of Longview. The manager prepares a recommended budget for the Council's consideration; recruits, hires, and supervises the government's staff; serves as the Council's chief adviser; and carries out the Council's policies. Council members and citizens count on the Manager to provide complete and objective information, alternatives, and long-term goals. Internal and external leadership is provided by the City Manager's Office on a daily basis as they respond to citizens, employees, and peer organizations. 

City Manager David Willard:

DavidWillardDavid Willard joined the City of Longview as City Manager in June 2007. Before coming to Longview, David was employed as Assistant City Manager in Odessa for five years. Prior to that, he served as the City Manager of the City of Borger, and the County Judge of Hutchison County. He also has experience in private industry.

Mr. Willard is a graduate of West Texas A&M University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. He received his Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Sul Ross State University. David and his wife, Cindy have two grown children and three grandchildren. 

Mr. Willard is responsible for the City of Longview as a whole, but he directly supervises the Assistant City Manager, Police Chief, Fire Chief, Director of Finance, Director of Administration, and Assistant to the City Manager. 

Assistant City Manager Keith Bonds:

Keith BondsKeith Bonds was named as Assistant City Manager in 2014. Keith has worked for the City of Longview since 1999, serving in roles such as the Director of Public Works, Director of Water Utilities, and Utility Engineer. He previously worked for the City of Texarkana as an engineer.

Keith is a Texas Licensed Professional Engineer with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Texas A&M University.  Keith and his wife Karen have a grown child.

Mr. Bonds directly supervises the Director of Public Works, Director of Development Services, Director of Community Services, Director of Parks and Recreation, and the Internal Auditor.