The City of El Paso held a press conference on Monday afternoon to announce that they have authorized Affion Public, the search firm hired to conduct a search of candidates for the City Manager position in El Paso, to enter into negotiations with top finalist Tommy Gonzalez.

Mr. Gonzalez, age 47, is currently Vice President of Sterling Construction Company, Inc.  His experience, all in Texas, includes previously serving as City Manager for Irving and Harlingen, as well as being an Assistant City Manager in Dallas and Lubbock.

Mr. Gonzalez has a Masters degree in Public Administration from Texas Tech University.  He is a retired U.S. Army Lt. Colonel.

Depending on how fast negotiations proceed, the City Council looks to be prepared to vote on the matter at next week's City Council meeting.

The new City Manager will replace Joyce Wilson who was El Paso's first City Manager and has served in that capacity for approximately ten years.

More information will be provided as it becomes available.