Jacksonville City Council appoints James Hubbard as City Manager, effective August 12, 2021.

by John Hawkins

July 2, 2021 - During a special council meeting on Friday, July 2, the Jacksonville City Council unanimously approved the appointment of James Hubbard to the position of City Manager of Jacksonville. This comes after the June 23rd resignation announcement of current City Manager, Greg Smith, who will continue serving in his current role until August 12.

Mr. Hubbard has worked in local government for over twelve years. He currently serves as the President of the Jacksonville Economic Development Organization (JEDCO), where he utilizes his skills to develop, administrate and track the effectiveness of economic development. He has worked closely with City of Jacksonville Council and leadership on various projects throughout the city. Hubbard has worked at all levels in local government from Parks Department Head to Assistant to the City Manager for the City of Colleyville, where he served on the executive leadership team and worked alongside the City Manager to carry out the policies of the Colleyville City Council.

“We are extremely confident in Mr. Hubbard’s ability to help lead Jacksonville forward. James has proven his commitment to Jacksonville and has been unwavering in his support for our residents, business owners and the betterment of our community,” said Mayor Randy Gorham.

Mr. Hubbard holds a Master in Public Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice/Criminology from the University of Texas at Arlington. With his degree specifically geared toward city leadership, James gained experience helping to develop a 5-year fully funded capital improvement plan targeting critical infrastructure. James also focused on geographic mapping and asset management as well as participated in Development and Charter Review Committees.

James has lived in Jacksonville with his family since joining JEDCO in 2017. James and his wife, Amy, have been married fourteen years. They have four children and are expecting their fifth child in January 2022.