City says goodbye to Russell
Alexandria Randolph/The Highlander
Marble Falls City Manager Mike Hodge presents outgoing Mayor George Russell with an award to recognize his service along with a memorial gavel on Tuesday in honor of his six years as mayor.
by Alexandria Randolph
Marble Falls City said goodbye to a well-loved public servant on Tuesday with the end of the final term of mayor George Russell.
Russell served as city mayor almost six years, as well as six years as city manager before that, and guided the city through several major developments in the city such as the replacement of the decades-old Marble Falls US 281 bridge, the growth of the Scott & White Regional Medical Center and the annexation of land south of the city to facilitate the hospital development.
“It's been a distinct honor and privilege to work with the group behind me, and in front of me,” Russell said, referring to the council members and audience of community members. “Everybody had a part in it. Im going to miss you guys but I'll still be around and I still love the city.”
Russell was recently appointed to the board of directors of the Lower Colorado River Authority by Gov. Greg Abbott; replacing LCRA Board Director Buddy Schrader of Horseshoe Bay. His term on the board will expire in 2021.
Mayor-elect John Packer took his seat on council Tuesday evening, but not before thanking his predecessor.
“George always supported me,” he said. “Most people don't know everything that George is involved in in the city. He's done a great job for our community and it's not over. He's given me very big shoes to fill.”
For the full story, see Friday's Highlander.
