In 2014, Jeff Johnston began serving the City of McAllen as an Assistant City Manager and the Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator. Mr. Johnston oversees Public Works, McAllen Metro, and the 3-1-1 Call Center, as well as numerous internal departments including Human Resources, Employee Benefits, Risk Management, Purchasing, and Information Technology. He also supervises Emergency Management staff, as well as the staff of the Rio Grande Valley Regional Radio System.
Involved in public service for over 30 years, Mr. Johnston began his local government career as a part-time Emergency Medical Technician. His public safety background includes certifications and work in local and federal law enforcement, structural and wildland firefighting, emergency medicine, and emergency management.
Prior to arriving in McAllen, he served as the Vice President of the Brownsville, Texas Convention & Visitors Bureau before spending over 16 years at the City of Brownsville, in positions including Emergency Management Coordinator, Director of the Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, and Assistant City Manager.
Mr. Johnston holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Parks and Recreation Administration from Texas A&M University. Mr. Johnston is also a Certified Emergency Manager through the International Association of Emergency Managers. He sits on numerous other regional and state boards and associations, including the Texas City Management Association, where he serves on the Board of Directors.
Mr. Johnston is an ordained Deacon and enjoys opportunities to serve others through his local church. He is married and has nine children and one grandchild.