Madras City Council selects Brenda Fahey as city administrator
Spencer Sacks
MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Madras City Council has identified Brenda Fahey as its preferred candidate for the position of City Administrator. The Council directed the preparation of an employment agreement for consideration at its June 23, 2026, meeting.
Fahey, who currently serves as Assistant City Manager and Human Resources Director for the City of The Dalles, brings more than 25 years of public sector experience to the role.
This decision follows a comprehensive recruitment process by the City Council. The process included community engagement opportunities, interviews with staff and external panels and formal interviews conducted by the City Council.
Fahey’s background includes executive leadership, organizational development, human resources, labor relations, public communications, budgeting and guiding organizations through periods of change and growth.
The City Administrator serves as Madras’ chief administrative officer. This role is responsible for implementing City Council direction, overseeing daily operations, supporting department leadership and advancing organizational priorities in service to the community.
The City of Madras has maintained continuity of operations through a leadership transition since January. Public Works Director Jeff Hurd served as Interim City Administrator through February. The City Council then managed the city while the recruitment process was underway. Interim City Administrator David Clyne joined the organization in April to provide leadership and support the City’s transition efforts. City employees continued to provide essential services throughout this period.
Clyne, Interim City Administrator, reflected on the recruitment process and Fahey’s qualifications. “Over the past several months, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside an incredibly dedicated team of employees and community partners who care deeply about the future of Madras. Through change and transition, our staff has continued to provide exceptional service while remaining focused on the work that matters most to our residents.”
Clyne added, “Throughout this recruitment process, the City Council, staff and community invested significant time and energy in identifying the right person to help lead Madras into its next chapter. I believe Fahey brings the experience, perspective and collaborative leadership style needed to build on the strong foundation already in place.”
Clyne expressed hope for a smooth transition, stating, “Leadership transitions are important moments for any organization. My hope is that our staff, our community and our partners will come together to welcome Brenda, share what makes Madras such a special place and give her the opportunity to learn from the people who know this community best. Madras has a long history of resilience, pride and working together and I know those qualities will continue to serve the City well in the years ahead.”
If the employment agreement is approved by the City Council, an anticipated July start date for Fahey would allow for a collaborative transition period before Clyne’s contract concludes on Aug. 1. The City of Madras extended its appreciation to employees, community partners, residents and stakeholders who participated in the recruitment process.
The City Council is expected to consider an employment agreement for Fahey at its June 23, 2026, meeting. If approved, Fahey is anticipated to begin serving as City Administrator in July.