Waco City Manager announces resignation

“This was not an easy decision, but it is the right one for me and my family. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Waco and to work alongside such talented and dedicated city employees. Over the next months, I remain committed to supporting the Council, our staff, and our community as we continue moving Waco forward.”

“Bradley Ford is an exceptional leader with a strong skillset, a passion for economic development, and an impressive track record. His commitment to excellence and dedication to our residents have left a lasting impact. What speaks volumes about Bradley’s character is his commitment to Waco—he wants to stay here and raise his family, which shows his deep belief in the future of our city.”

"The City has achieved remarkable progress under Bradley’s leadership. While we often focus on the visible transformations—new buildings, booming businesses, and the vibrant community—it's the subtle yet significant changes that often have the greatest impact. He has guided his team and our city toward generational change through thoughtful policy updates, multimillion-dollar infrastructure improvements, and ensuring the safety of our water resources, among other initiatives. As a Wacoan and council member, I am truly grateful for both the visible and the behind-the-scenes efforts that contribute to our city's growth."

“In the short time that I have had the privilege of serving on City Council, I have been incredibly impressed by Bradley’s dedication to his role as City Manager, his perseverance through challenges, and his servant heart. Bradley has a strong ability to lead with integrity, build consensus, and support City staff. Waco has benefited greatly from his vision and commitment, and the talented team he has cultivated will continue to carry his work forward.”

“Bradley Ford led our city during a dynamic time with integrity, compassion, and strength. His courage and wisdom during the pandemic, drought, and winter storms deeply inspired those of us who worked alongside him. He always put people first, with the well-being of our residents and city employees as his highest goal. I am immensely grateful for his service to Waco.”

“Bradley and I were sworn into our positions on city council and as city manager on the same day, towards the beginning of the pandemic. Being able to watch him serve and lead our city through continued unprecedented circumstances, both up close and from afar, has been an absolute honor. I have learned from Bradley what it is to lead with absolute care for those who are following you, while focusing on what is ahead. That balance is never easy, yet he delivered it, unfailingly, day after day. Waco is better because of his work, and we will feel the absence of his presence when he departs. Until then, we remain grateful for his steady hand and look forward to his continued leadership through February 2026.”

“It has been my pleasure to work with Bradley over the 15 months that I have been on council. Waco is lucky to have had him as our city manager and should be proud of all that we have accomplished under his leadership. He has assembled a fantastic group of people around him, and I am confident that Waco’s forward momentum will continue. I will miss working with him.”