Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
Mike Pérez has been named the new city manager of Mission, Texas, marking a significant addition to the city’s leadership team. His appointment was decided in a special meeting of the Mission City Council on March 18, 2024, following the retirement announcement of Randy Pérez, who dedicated 22 years to the City of Mission. Mayor Norie González Garza expressed enthusiasm about Mike Pérez joining the team, highlighting his potential to steer Mission toward further growth and prosperity while maintaining high-quality life and services for its residents.
With a distinguished career spanning over 40 years in city administration across South Texas, Mike Pérez brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of effective leadership. His tenure has covered some of the Rio Grande Valley’s largest cities, including McAllen, Harlingen, Mercedes, and Weslaco. His expertise in managing cities through periods of significant growth and change makes him a perfect fit for Mission, a city experiencing rapid development and looking to harness its potential fully.
Mike Pérez’s career is characterized by resilience, strategic foresight, and a firm commitment to community service. His time as city manager in McAllen was particularly notable, where he served under both the iconic Othal Brand and Leo Montalvo, navigating the complexities of city governance with diplomacy and integrity. Despite the often-challenging political landscape, Pérez earned the respect and trust of numerous city governments, emphasizing professionalism and discretion throughout his career.
A native of the Rio Grande Valley, Pérez’s journey into public service was influenced by early leadership roles and mentorship, beginning with his education at Donna High School and UT-Pan Am. A friend’s encouragement sparked his decision to pursue a career in city government, leading to internships and further education in public administration. This path laid the groundwork for a career dedicated to enhancing city management and mentorship, guiding many colleagues toward their successful careers in city administration.
In 2022, the Texas City Management Association recognized Mike Perez’s outstanding contributions to city management with a Lifetime Achievement Award, a tribute to his impact and legacy in the field. As Pérez steps into his new role in Mission, his leadership is anticipated to catalyze development and improve the quality of life for its residents, ensuring the city’s continued growth and success.
Mike Pérez’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Mission. The city seeks to navigate its expansion while preserving the community values and quality of services that its residents cherish. With his extensive experience and track record of successful leadership, Pérez is set to lead Mission toward a future filled with prosperity and success.
