Council Hires City Manager

Staff Writer

The city council entered into a brief open session during the town hall meeting to vote unanimously in favor of hiring Jim Stephens as the city manager.

For the past eight years, Stephens has worked at the city of Canton in various capacities, including Economic Development Corporation Director, the Main Street Manager and Community/Administrative Services.

In 2003 he was named Economic Developer of the Year for Small Cities for the East Texas Economic Development District.

Before his time in Canton, Stephens worked for Perry Bros., Inc. for 30 years as a store manager, and as advertising manager.

"Jim’s greatest characteristic is his optimism," said mayor Scott McGriff. "He has been instrumental in bringing new business into Canton. He is very well-connected, and has more than 30 years of management experience."

In a brief statement at the town hall meeting, Stephens expressed his excitement for the opportunity to serve in Wills Point.

Stephens and his wife Pat are both graduates of Grand Saline High School.