Jim Blagg, Assistant City Manager - DPS Director
Jim Blagg joined the City of Southlake as assistant city manager and Department of Public Safety director in 2005. As assistant city manager, he has worked with the city manager in coordinating all municipal and interdepartmental operations to provide vision, leadership and direction for the city management team. He works closely with Southlake residents, members of the city council and representatives from public and private agencies.
As Department of Public Safety director, Mr. Blagg oversees approximately 115 staff members of the fire, police and emergency medical divisions. The department provides services to more than 25,500 citizens in a 23 square mile area. Mr. Blagg has worked to maintain the very high standard of service Southlake citizens receive and assisted in organizing the city management system currently in place to provide that service. He is ultimately working toward Southlake's recognition as a premier city for its size in the nation. His hope is that Southlake will serve as the standard for which other municipalities strive in terms of management principles and service delivery.
Mr. Blagg recently negotiated and implemented a new solid waste collection contract for the city, which resulted in an increased level of service for Southlake residents. "I like being able to work on a variety of projects that will have a positive impact on the future of Southlake," said Blagg.
Prior to his employment with the City of Southlake, Mr. Blagg was senior vice president of The Mercer Group and chief executive office of Dallas Metrocare Services. He has more than 20 years experience in city management and administration, including his position as city manager of Abilene, Texas.
Mr. Blagg holds a Master of Arts degree in political science, with an emphasis on public administration, from West Texas State University. He also attended the Public Executive Institute and the LBJ School of Public Affairs. He is a member of the Texas Municipal League, Texas City Management Association and the International City Management Association.
Mr. Blagg is married with two daughters and five grandchildren.