William Linn named new city manager

After meeting briefly in executive session at the Thursday, Nov. 30, special called meeting of the Yoakum city council, aldermen reconvened in open session to announce the hiring of new city manager William Linn.

“We had a pool of 21 applicants. Experience was one major consideration in appointing the new city manager. He has served in places like Leonard, Kenedy and Valley Mills,” Mayor Carl O’Neill said. “When interviewing him, his concerns for the protection of Yoakum was a major factor.”

Linn has been in city management since 2015.

“Yoakum is a great town, it has a lot of charm and quaintness about it,” Linn said. “One of the things that attracted me to the city of Yoakum is just the people. I’ve known some people I’ve dealt with throughout the years who have known a lot of people in Yoakum. I’ve actually interacted with quite a few people in Yoakum throughout the years, and I’ve always just enjoyed the conversations and type of people in Yoakum.”

Linn said he’s ready to learn more about the direction the council wants to go and then serve together with them to see the job done.

Council began its search for a new city manager in August following a parting of ways with Kevin Coleman, who worked with the city of Yoakum for more than a decade. Said O’Neill of the council’s decision at that time, “We’re looking to go in a different direction, and Kevin Coleman’s style was just not in tune with that direction.”

Mayor O’Neill further stated that the council preferred someone who delegates tasks well, who “serves in more of a public relations capacity” looking forward.

“We felt the position needed to be shifted to let department heads handle more of the operations, giving (the city manager) a little more flexibility,” he said.

In that respect, Linn appears to fill the bill, considering he was chosen from a rather large and competitive group of possible candidates.

“I am really looking forward to coming aboard and being a part of the family with the Yoakum team and helping the residents and the town accomplish the goals that they have,” Linn said.

After visiting several businesses in Yoakum, Linn said community feedback has been incredible.

“The people have treated me totally wonderful. (Yoakum) has a southern charm and a country feel to it,” Linn said. “I’m very privileged that God has given me this opportunity.” Photo not available at press time.