Jesus “Jay” Chapa, a respected leader with over two decades of experience in local government, has been named the lone finalist for the position of Fort Worth city manager, pending approval by the Fort Worth City Council on Tuesday, December 10. If confirmed, Chapa will make history as the city’s first Hispanic city manager.
Chapa’s distinguished career in Fort Worth has been marked by his visionary leadership, commitment to innovation, and a deep understanding of the city's diverse communities. He has held numerous high-level positions within the city government, including deputy city manager, assistant city manager, and director of housing and economic development. Chapa has played a pivotal role in some of the city’s most transformative projects, such as the opening of the Dickies Arena, the development of Renaissance Square, and the revitalization of the Near Southside into a premier entertainment district.
“Jay is a man of brilliant creative thinking, has led most of the public-private partnership efforts in the city over the past 10 years, and has an unmatched ability to hit the ground running,” said Mayor Mattie Parker. “His proven financial stewardship has and will continue to set the nation’s 12th largest city up for success far into the future. Jay is one of the most qualified city managers in the country — and we are the lucky ones because Jay already calls Fort Worth home.”
Chapa has also played a key role in shaping the city’s economic development policies, improving public safety, and strengthening Fort Worth’s fiscal health. Notably, he led the development and successful voter approval of the City’s 2022 Bond Program, which has funded a range of infrastructure and public safety improvements. Additionally, he worked closely with Fort Worth Police Department leadership to right-size the department's budget and develop a strategic five-year facilities plan.
Throughout his career, Chapa has worked on various initiatives aimed at enhancing Fort Worth’s economy, including the renewal of the Crime Control & Prevention District and the creation of new economic development policies. These policies have attracted major corporate relocations to Fort Worth, contributing to job creation and the city’s economic expansion. His efforts have helped bring more than 8,000 jobs to the city in a three-year period through strategic corporate projects.
“I have known Jay for nearly 20 years, and I am confident that Jay has the unique ability to understand each community within our city. He has my full support, and I can’t wait to work with him again,” said Mayor Pro-Tem Gyna Bivens.
Chapa is recognized for his collaborative leadership style, which emphasizes inclusivity and the importance of bringing together diverse voices. Whether working with neighborhood associations, business leaders, or community groups, Chapa is known for finding practical solutions while being mindful of taxpayer interests. His ability to forge partnerships between public and private sectors has been a hallmark of his tenure in various roles within the city.
In addition to his work within Fort Worth’s government, Chapa started his own consulting firm, J Chapa Strategic Solutions, in February 2022. The firm provides strategic advisory services to local governments, public agencies, development entities, and businesses.
“I believe that the success of Fort Worth lies in the strength of its neighborhoods, the vitality of its businesses, and the collaboration between all sectors of the community,” said Chapa. “If approved as city manager, I will continue to build on our city’s momentum to create a bright future for all of Fort Worth.”
Chapa holds a master’s degree in public administration from the University of North Texas and a bachelor’s degree in history from Texas Tech University. He and his wife, Evalis, have one daughter, Emilia, who is currently a medical school student.
Chapa’s selection follows a national search to find a successor for current City Manager David Cooke, who is set to retire in February 2025 after more than a decade of service. Over 150 candidates applied for the position, with Chapa emerging as the top candidate following a rigorous selection process. The city manager position is one of four key Council-appointed roles, alongside the city attorney, city secretary, and city auditor.
With Chapa’s wealth of experience and proven track record in Fort Worth, city leaders are confident that he is the right choice to guide the city forward into its next phase of growth and development.
