The Denison City Council has announced the appointment of Renee Waggoner as the next City Manager for the City of Denison. She becomes the eighth individual to hold this position since 1980.
The selection concludes an extensive nationwide search process that began in May 2026. The city engaged Clear Career Professionals to conduct the recruitment, which attracted 50 candidates from across the country. After a comprehensive five-month evaluation period, the City Council chose Waggoner to lead the organization.
Waggoner has spent nearly 25 years with the city. Her career began in January 2002 as a Utility Account Manager. Over the following decades, she held several leadership roles, including Internal Auditor, Accounting Supervisor, Assistant Director of Finance, and Director of Finance.
In 2016, she became Director of Finance and Administrative Services, followed by a promotion to Executive Director of Finance and Administrative Services in 2020.
In March 2022, Waggoner was promoted to Assistant City Manager, where she helped oversee city operations and collaborated with departments on organizational priorities. In May 2026, she was appointed Interim City Manager while the council conducted its search for a permanent replacement.
Waggoner holds a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences degree from Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas. She is currently pursuing accreditation as a Certified Public Manager.
Mayor Robert Crawley stated that Waggoner has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the organization and the community throughout her career. He noted that the council focused on finding a leader to guide Denison through a period of growth and expressed confidence in her ability to do so.
Waggoner said she is honored to serve as the next City Manager. She thanked Mayor Crawley, the City Council, and the employees of Team Denison for their trust and support. She added that she looks forward to working with residents, businesses, and community partners to ensure Denison remains a place residents are proud to call home.