During Special Meeting, Alexandria City Council Names James Parajon Next City Manager
Current City Manager Mark B. Jinks will retire at the end of the year
ALEXANDRIA, VA – On Wednesday, Dec. 1 at 6 p.m, Alexandria City Council held a special meeting to announce James Parajon as the next city manager. The meeting was held at both the Council Chamber (located at 301 King Street) and electronically through a video conference call on Zoom.
Council began the meeting with action to appoint a new city manager. Mayor Justin Wilson followed by addressing the Alexandria community, thanking them for the feedback received during the selection process. After expressing his gratitude, he made Parajon’s appointment official
“With input through surveys, town halls and review panels, the City Council sought to find a candidate who would reflect our values, and we found that in Jim Parajon.” Wilson explained. “We look forward to working with Jim, City staff and Alexandrians to accomplish great things together.”
Parajon was selected by a 5-1 vote. Last night he signed official appointment documents. Parajon was previously Deputy City Manager in Arlington, Texas, and will take office Jan. 18, 2022.
“I want to thank the mayor and council for placing their trust in me to lead this organization.” Parajon said in remarks to City Council and the public. He also thanked his wife for her support, as well as outgoing City Manager Mark Jinks, who will retire at the end of the year.
Speaking directly to the Alexandria community, Parajon expressed his excitement and talked about being an active, supportive city manager.
“You’re going to see a lot of what I can do, what this organization can do to better your lives,” he said. “You’re going to see a person of high accountability and professionalism. I love it here. I’m really excited about this opportunity…I can’t wait to get started with the work I need to do.”
To view the recording of the Dec. 1 meeting, and much more, visit the City of Alexandria’s official website, where they have a list of recent and upcoming meetings. This list can be found HERE. Want to learn more about Parajon and his background? Read this press release.
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