Police chief, contract among top priorities as Broadnax era begins at Austin City Hall

AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- Austin's new city manager took the reins at City Hall Monday, with finding a permanent police chief and finalizing a new contract with the Austin Police Association among his top priorities.

T.C. Broadnax comes to Austin after serving seven years as the city manager in Dallas. He'll lead the city's more than 16,000 employees, as well as oversee the city's $5.5 billion annual budget.

In addition to police issues, Broadnax says other key priorities include emergency preparedness, affordable housing, and addressing the city's growing homelessness population.

"Together, we will address these and other challenges with collaborative, transparent, inclusive, and equitable approaches," Broadnax said. "As the City continues its rapid growth, we must grow in our unique roles as devoted City employees, boldly responding to challenges with creativity and compassion."

Prior to his tenure in Dallas, Broadnax served as the city manager of Tacoma, Washington, from 2012 to 2017. He also held assistant city manager roles in San Antonio and Pompano Beach, Florida.

Broadnax earned his bachelor’s degrees in political science and communications at Washburn University, in Topeka, Kansas and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of North Texas. He's also set to receive an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree from Washburn University later this week.