AUSTIN, Texas — Monday marked the start of T.C. Broadnax's tenure as Austin city manager.
Even though Broadnax was in closed-door meetings all day, he shared a list of priorities and key issues he plans to address. Broadnax has also promised more transparency in his role.
One of Broadnax's priorities will be to hire a permanent police chief. Interim Chief Robin Henderson has been in the role since September following former Chief Joseph Chacon's departure. Broadnax also said he wants to finalize a new agreement between the Austin Police Association and the city of Austin.
"Communication and collaboration are the big things," Austin Police Association President Michael Bullock said. "Don't just tell us how things are gonna be. Actually seek our input because we're more than happy to give it."
Some of the other key issues include addressing Austin's emergency preparedness, affordable housing, climate change and homelessness.
"We think we have the right person," Councilmember Ryan Alter said. "We know there are things we can do better on as a city, so someone like T.C., who has experienced a lot of this ... brings a wealth of knowledge to help us address these issues."
Broadnax served as the city manager of Dallas for seven years before coming to Austin. He'll oversee Austin's $5.5 billion budget and more than 16,000 employees.
“Together, we will address these and other challenges with collaborative, transparent, inclusive and equitable approaches,” Broadnax said on Monday. “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.”
Broadnax had a dysfunctional relationship with Mayor Eric Johnson during his time in Dallas, and council members asked Broadnax to resign in 2022.
Before leaving his position, Broadnax admitted his relationship with Johnson "could have been better" and that the city would have "benefited immensely." He said despite the reported strain between the two, they "actually get along."
RELATED: What led T.C. Broadnax to Austin? A dysfunctional relationship with Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson