Madras has a new city administrator. After a months-long search that included public meet-and-greet events and multiple rounds of interviews, the Madras City Council officially confirmed Brenda Fahey as the city’s new top administrator at its June 23 meeting.
Fahey brings more than 25 years of public sector experience to the position. She currently serves as assistant city manager and human resources director for the City of The Dalles, and is expected to begin her new role in Madras next month.
A City in Search of Stability
The hire comes after a period of significant leadership churn at Madras City Hall. The extended vacancy and instability prompted the city to undertake a formal, structured search process — one that ultimately drew candidates from across Oregon.
Three finalists were introduced to the public at a community meet-and-greet held June 10 at Initiative Brewing: Fahey, Jody Yates, and Maurice Henderson II. Community members had the opportunity to speak directly with each candidate before the council made its final decision.
The council selected Fahey at a special meeting on June 16 and formally directed city staff to prepare an employment agreement, which was approved at the June 23 regular meeting.
“The city council is thrilled to announce our selection for our new city administrator,” said Mayor Mike Lepin following the June 16 vote.
About Brenda Fahey
Fahey’s background in human resources and municipal management positions her to address both the administrative and organizational challenges facing Madras. The Dalles, where she currently works, is a Columbia River community of roughly 15,000 people — larger than Madras but sharing many of the same dynamics of a small, rural Oregon city.
Her start date has not been formally announced, but city officials have indicated she will assume the role in July 2026. The city administrator position oversees day-to-day city operations, manages department heads, and serves as the primary liaison between the City Council and city staff.
With Fahey’s arrival, Madras residents and city staff alike are hoping for a period of steady, consistent leadership as the city navigates ongoing projects including water system improvements, housing development, and long-term planning initiatives.