Jeff Johnston currently serves the City of McAllen as an Assistant City Manager, and as the city’s Emergency Management Coordinator. Having served the city since 2014, Mr. Johnston oversees the McAllen Fire Department, the 3-1-1 Call Center, and the Office of Emergency Management, along with numerous internal departments including Human Resources, Employee Benefits, Risk Management, Purchasing, Information Technology, and the staff of the Rio Grande Valley Regional Radio System.
Involved in public service for over 34 years, Mr. Johnston began his local government career as a part-time Emergency Medical Technician. His public safety background includes certifications and work in local and federal law enforcement, structural and wildland firefighting, emergency medicine, and emergency management.
Mr. Johnston holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Parks and Recreation Administration from Texas A&M University, as well as a Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) credential through the International Association of Emergency Managers. Among numerous local, regional, and state boards and associations, Jeff has served on the Emergency Management Association of Texas (EMAT) Board of Directors, and the Texas City Management Association (TCMA) Board of Directors, where he currently serves as Vice-Chair of the TCMA Ethics Committee. During his long career, Mr. Johnston has received multiple regional, state, and industry awards.
Mr. Johnston is an ordained Deacon and enjoys opportunities to serve others through his local church. He is married and has nine children and four grandchildren.