Bob Terrell: Fort Worth’s First Black City Manager Who Changed How the City Serves Its People: In 1992, Bob Terrell made history as Fort Worth’s first African American city manager, leading the city until his retirement in 2000. A graduate with a master’s in public administration, he started with the city in the 1970s, rose through the ranks as assistant city manager, and eventually became the professional chief executive running day‑to‑day operations under the mayor and council.During his tenure, Terrell helped modernize critical services, including the development of emergency response systems like 911 and MedStar that strengthened how quickly residents could get help. He also became the longest‑serving city manager since Fort Worth adopted the council‑manager form of government in 1925, showing that a Black leader could not only break barriers, but successfully guide one of the fastest‑growing cities in the country.For older residents who met him, like you did just a few years after high school, Terrell was approachable, steady, and always focused on service, making young Black Fort Worth residents feel seen at City Hall. Sharing his story today helps the new generation understand that the people running their city once had to fight simply for a seat at the table—and then used that seat to improve life for everyone. Story By Dr Donnell Ballard #DallasFortWorth #DallasFortWorth #Dallas #FortWorthMusic #CityLife
