Grand Prairie Appoints Bill Hills as New City Manager

By: Malcom Chakery

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas – Bill Hills, a dedicated servant in Grand Prairie with an illustrious career spanning over three decades, has been announced as the city's new City Manager. This appointment follows the retirement of former City Manager, Steve Dye.

Bill Hills steps into this new role after serving as Grand Prairie’s Deputy City Manager, where he had an extensive oversight of several pivotal city departments including Housing, Planning and Development, and Public Works among others. Interestingly, Fire and Police departments will also continue to report to Hills in his new capacity.

Expressing his sentiments on the appointment, Hills stated, “It’s a privilege to serve a city that I deeply care about and to be part of such an incredible family of employees. With our competent executive leadership and the unwavering support from the City Council, I'm eager to push the envelope and ensure Grand Prairie's growth.”

Mayor Ron Jensen shared his confidence in Hills’ leadership, commenting, “Bill stands out as the perfect successor to fill the roles previously held by city managers like Tom Hart and Steve Dye. His familiarity with our city, the residents, businesses, employees, and City Council is unparalleled. He has a knack for nurturing professional relationships, spearheading innovations, and empowering his teams.”

Steve Dye, the outgoing City Manager, didn’t shy away from singing Hills’ praises. Reflecting on his tenure, Dye mentioned, “It gives me immense satisfaction to know the city’s leadership remains in competent hands as I transition back to my true passion – policing.”

Hills' journey with Grand Prairie began in 1989 as a Code Compliance Manager. By 2020, he had climbed to the role of Deputy City Manager. Before joining the Grand Prairie administration, Hills served in Fort Worth in various capacities, including Assistant Superintendent of Code Enforcement. He’s also renowned for founding and leading several associations, such as the Code Enforcement Association of Texas. Additionally, he has remained active in various organizations both within the city and nationally.

Educationally, Hills boasts a degree in Public Administration from the University of Texas at Austin and has furthered his studies at Kensington University. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill Hills is a devoted family man, wearing the proud titles of husband, father, grandfather, and even great-grandfather.