The City of Madras has a new city administrator. Brenda Fahey was officially hired following a formal announcement at the June 23 Madras City Council meeting, and is set to begin work on July 20.

The hire ends a period of interim leadership that stretched through much of 2026. Interim City Administrator David Clyne has been managing city operations since early April, and the search for a permanent hire was a priority heading into the summer.

Fahey’s Priorities

Fahey said she plans to hit the ground running on several fronts:

  • Public engagement — building stronger connections between city government and Madras residents
  • Economic development — supporting local business and growth
  • Staff relationships — getting to know city employees and establishing trust
  • Filling key vacancies — including a police chief and a finance director, both of which have been on hold pending the city administrator hire
  • Budget review — evaluating the city’s current fiscal direction and changes implemented under interim leadership

The city has been operating without a permanent police chief and finance director, deliberately holding off on those searches while the administrator position was being filled. Those recruitments are expected to accelerate now that Fahey has been confirmed.

Transition Timeline

Clyne’s contract was originally set to run through August, but with Fahey starting July 20, he will only remain engaged on an as-needed basis during the brief overlap period. The specific details of the handoff will be worked out once Fahey is on board.

Clyne has been an advocate for reinstating a Human Resources director position in the city’s new budget, a move that reflects broader staffing challenges the city has faced over the past year.

City at a Crossroads

Madras has been navigating a busy stretch in city government. A new shared vision plan is being developed in partnership with Jefferson County, and discussions are ongoing about long-term planning for the community. The aquatic center project, budget negotiations, and downtown revitalization are among the issues Fahey will inherit.

Fahey’s hiring is a signal that city leadership is focused on stability and continuity after a period of leadership flux. Residents who want to connect with the new administrator are encouraged to watch for public engagement opportunities that Fahey has said will be a priority from day one.