Key Takeaways

• John Noblitt has been the city manager of Sanger, Texas, since 2021 and has implemented significant utility agreements and infrastructure projects.
• A landmark 16-year electricity agreement with the Lower Colorado River Authority promises reliable, low-cost power for the growing city.
• Sanger is expanding rapidly, with new housing and commercial developments, including an upcoming Tom Thumb supermarket expected to open before Thanksgiving.

Returning to Roots

John Noblitt took on the role of city manager in Sanger, Texas, in 2021, marking a return to the city where he spent part of his childhood. With a previous background as city manager in two Oklahoma towns and community services director in Gainesville, Texas, Noblitt viewed Sanger’s growth potential as an opportunity for impactful leadership.

Sanger, a city of around 10,000 residents located 55 miles north of Dallas, has been experiencing significant development since the early 2020s. Under Noblitt’s guidance, the city secured a transformative 16-year agreement with the Lower Colorado River Authority, providing a reliable electricity supply at a low fixed rate. Noblitt highlighted the advantages of this deal, stating, “There were no caps, the rates are fixed, and there were no additional ancillary costs.” This allows the city to offer competitive electricity prices to consumers.

In addition to energy improvements, Noblitt evaluated the city’s wastewater treatment facility project. Concluding it was unnecessary, he led efforts to acquire land for a new regional treatment plant that meets the needs of Sanger’s growing population while also allowing for the development of parks and trails.

Noblitt believes Sanger is on the brink of becoming a “boom town,” with nearly 4,000 housing units already in place and another 4,000 in development. One notable change on the horizon is the opening of a Tom Thumb Supermarket as part of an anticipated mixed-use development featuring 2,000 housing units and commercial properties. The grocery store is expected to welcome customers before Thanksgiving, addressing a significant gap in local amenities.

A key aspect of Noblitt’s leadership is his collaborative approach with the city council. He emphasizes the importance of keeping council members informed from the outset to reduce potential pushback on initiatives. He advises fellow city leaders to prioritize transparency and accountability, recognizing that their decisions directly affect the lives of constituents.

Despite the challenges inherent in public service, Noblitt expresses pride in his role, stating, “I couldn’t ask for a better job than to be a public servant.” He believes that fostering a long-term, community-focused vision is critical for successful governance in any city. Through his tenure, Noblitt aims to actualize both the policies of elected officials and the aspirations of the public, elevating Sanger’s potential for growth and development in the coming years.

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