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Longtime city employee Beau Perry is back at the big desk, appointed interim city manager last week after Isaac Turner’s tenure came to a close.
City Council voted unanimously after a two-hour executive session Sept. 9 to place Perry in the familiar role, effective immediately, until further notice. Perry has worked for the city for more than 20 years and briefly held the post last winter.
He takes the helm as the city navigates the final days of a difficult budget season and prepares for what officials expect will be a fiscally tight first quarter. Pam Sanders, similarly serving as interim finance director — Elgin’s other critical vacancy — said Perry’s experience will help provide stability at a crucial time.
“I welcome the council’s decision to reappoint Mr. Perry. His familiarity with the city’s current challenges and priorities provides continuity at an important time,” Sanders said. “Stability in leadership is critical as we work through several key initiatives and staffing transitions, and I look forward to continuing that work under his leadership.”
Sanders credited Turner with preparing staff well for his departure. During his eight months in Elgin, Turner focused on strengthening city operations, improving communication across departments and reinforcing financial and administrative systems.
“Those steps have put us in a better position to address vacancies now compared to earlier in the year,” Sanders said.
With no finish line yet in sight, Perry will help guide council deliberations as the city continues its search for a permanent city manager. Council members have remained largely silent as they review candidates.
“Mr. Perry has the knowledge so that we can continue doing our regular business until we can get a [permanent] city manager,” Mayor Theresa McShan said after Perry’s initial appointment late last year.
Elgin’s first choice for the position, current Cibolo City Manager Wayne Reed, declined the city’s offer last month. One of four finalists named in July, he reportedly told city leaders the move was not the right fit for him and his family.
The council has not provided any new information on the remaining candidates.
As for the vacant finance director position, officials said the next hire should bring not only technical expertise but also the ability to communicate complex information clearly with both the council and the community.
“Traits such as transparency, adaptability and a collaborative leadership style will be key,” Sanders said. “I will work closely with the new city manager on the hiring process for this position, but for now, I will remain focused on ensuring day-to-day operations continue smoothly during this interim period.”
Councilwoman Tiffany St. Pierre made the motion to appoint Perry, which was seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Sue Brashar. The motion carried unanimously.
