The Amarillo City Council has appointed Rodney Rhoades as interim city manager, bringing in a veteran public administrator with nearly 36 years of experience to lead the city as it searches for a permanent replacement.
The council approved Rhoades' appointment during its regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday, Oct. 27.
Rhoades takes over following the September resignation of former City Manager Grayson Path. Deputy City Manager and Chief Operating Officer Andrew Freeman has been serving as acting city manager since Path's departure.
The city enlisted Strategic Government Resources (SGR), a firm specializing in local government executive recruitment and interim management, to help identify an experienced leader to oversee city operations during the transition.
Rhoades brings an extensive background in municipal government, county administration and regional utility management across Texas.
He previously served as executive director and general manager of the North Texas Municipal Water District, overseeing water, wastewater and solid waste operations for communities throughout North Texas.
His career also includes serving as chief financial officer for the City of McKinney, county executive for Travis County and director of operations and administration for Collin County.
After retiring from the North Texas Municipal Water District, Rhoades founded Rhoades Public Solutions, a consulting firm that provides financial, operational and strategic guidance to public sector organizations.
Through his consulting work, he has helped local governments with financial analysis, organizational management and long-term planning.
Amarillo Mayor Cole Stanley welcomed the appointment, expressing confidence in Rhoades' ability to lead the city during the transition.
“I'm excited to work alongside Mr. Rhoades and look forward to the city moving forward under strong leadership," Stanley said.
Rhoades acknowledged that leadership changes can create uncertainty for city employees and said maintaining stability will be among his top priorities.
"I recognize that this period of transition may bring some uncertainty, especially among staff," Rhoades said. "My focus will be to provide calm, consistent, and accessible leadership while maintaining momentum on council's priorities."
As interim city manager, Rhoades will oversee Amarillo's daily operations, work with department leaders and the city council, and ensure essential city services continue without disruption.
He will also be responsible for helping advance the council's priorities while the city works toward selecting its next permanent city manager.
The appointment provides Amarillo with experienced leadership as the council continues evaluating its options for filling the position permanently.
