Rowlett hires Corrie Ream as new planning director and appoints Jeff Garner as police chief

The North Richland Hills City Council meeting on February 10, 2025, highlighted significant leadership changes and procedural updates that promise to shape the city's future.

City Manager Paulette reported an extension of the deadline for the efficiency audit RFPs by one week, now set for February 19. This decision, made at the request of several vendors, aims to enhance the quality of proposals and potentially increase cost efficiency. As a result, the award announcement will be postponed until the second meeting in March.

In a notable shift in city leadership, Paulette announced the hiring of Corrie Ream as the new planning director. Ream, currently the managing director of community development in Rowlett, brings valuable experience as a certified planner and former city manager. Her first day is scheduled to coincide with the next council meeting, allowing council members to meet her in person.

Additionally, Stephanie Martinez has been promoted to managing director of community development, overseeing neighborhood services, building inspections, and permits. The engineering division will revert to the public works department, reflecting a strategic reorganization within city management.

The meeting also marked the selection of Jeff Garner as the new police chief. Garner's leadership style was highlighted as a key factor in his appointment, aimed at providing stability to the department after recent challenges. A ceremonial swearing-in is planned for the February 24 council meeting.

These developments signal a proactive approach by the North Richland Hills City Council to enhance city operations and community safety, setting the stage for a more efficient and responsive local government.