The City Manager’s Office acts as the professional, chief executive branch of the city, responsible for implementing the policies of the Mayor and City Commission and managing daily operations. They oversee city departments, prepare the budget, and ensure city services are delivered efficiently, acting as the administrative head.
A native of Hidalgo County, Leo returns to serve the region where his roots began, following a distinguished career in municipal leadership across the Rio Grande Valley. With nearly 20 years of experience in city management, economic development, public finance, budgeting, capital planning, and municipal operations, Leo has built a reputation for strengthening organizations and delivering measurable results for the communities he serves.
Most recently, Leo served as Senior Director of Enterprise Operations for the City of Pharr, where he provided executive-level oversight of critical municipal services including EMS, utilities, municipal fiber, and other enterprise operations. Prior to his role in Pharr, Leo served as City Manager for the City of Palmview from 2019 to 2026, where he led a historic financial and organizational turnaround.
During his tenure in Palmview, Leo achieved the City’s first unmodified clean audit and secured its first A+ bond rating. Under his leadership, City assets grew from approximately $4.8 million to over $22.9 million, while more than $17 million in capital improvement and infrastructure projects were completed. His administration also expanded essential services, including the establishment of the City’s first municipal library and sanitation program, and implemented the City’s first employee Step and Grade compensation system.
Leo’s leadership philosophy centers on transparency, accountability, and service. He emphasizes responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources, strong organizational culture, and investment in employees as the foundation for delivering high-quality public services. His approach prioritizes accessibility, responsiveness, and collaboration between government, residents, and community partners.
As City Manager, Leo will work closely with the Mayor, City Commission, staff, and community stakeholders to build upon Alamo’s momentum, strengthen municipal operations, and advance strategic growth initiatives that enhance quality of life for residents.
“I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to serve the City of Alamo. This is a community with tremendous momentum and one that is well positioned for continued growth and success. My goal is to listen, support our employees, and work alongside City leadership and the community to build on that success while continuing to grow responsibly and strengthen City services.”
City officials expressed confidence in Leo’s leadership, citing his experience, vision, and commitment to public service as key assets in guiding the City of Alamo into its next chapter.
A proud graduate of PSJA Memorial High School, Class of 2002, Ms. Padilla brings more than 13 years of leadership experience across both the private and public sectors. Her background includes extensive work in municipal operations, administration, budgeting, grants, communications, and organizational leadership.
Since transitioning into public service in 2017, she has served the City of McAllen, Hidalgo County, and most recently the City of Edinburg Police Department, where she held a key administrative leadership role overseeing eight divisions and 63 employees.
Ms. Padilla holds a Bachelor of Science in Pre-Law with a minor in History, a Master of Arts in Executive Leadership, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Public Administration, reflecting her continued commitment to growth and service.
As Assistant City Manager, she looks forward to strengthening city operations, supporting employees, and fostering collaboration to continue moving Alamo forward.
“I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve the City of Alamo… I look forward to working alongside our City leadership, employees, and community as we continue moving Alamo forward.”