City Manager Announces Updates to the City’s Leadership Team
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – City Manager Peter Zanoni has announced updates to the City’s leadership team, appointing two Assistant City Manager positions and a Director of Development Services.
Ernesto De La Garza will begin his appointment as Assistant City Manager on Monday, October 5. De La Garza has served as Interim Assistant City Manager since May 2025. He joined the City in 2022 as the Director of Public Works.
“I’m truly grateful for the trust placed in me during my time as Interim Assistant City Manager, and I’m honored to continue serving our community in the permanent role,” said Ernesto De La Garza. “It has been a privilege to work alongside such dedicated colleagues, and I’m excited to keep building on the progress we’ve made together.”
De La Garza holds both a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and a Master of Civil Engineering from Texas A&M University – Kingsville. He is also a licensed professional engineer through the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.
De La Garza brings more than 19 years of combined experience in municipal and state government, including more than nine years in executive leadership roles.
Upon his appointment, De La Garza will continue to serve as Director of Public Works until the permanent director position is filled.
Michael Dice will begin his appointment as Assistant City Manager on Monday, October 5. Dice has served as Interim Assistant City Manager since September 2025. He joined the City in 2019 as Assistant Director of Development Services before being promoted to Director of Development Services in 2024.
“I’m honored to be named Assistant City Manager,” said Michael Dice. “Growing up in the Corpus Christi area, it’s truly meaningful to serve the community that shaped me. I’m grateful for the support I received while serving in the interim role and look forward to continuing our work to help build a stronger community.”
Dice holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Texas at San Antonio and a Master of Business Administration from California Coast University. He is also a Texas-licensed Code Enforcement Officer and serves as a member of the International Code Council, where he holds several certifications, including the Certified Building Official designation.
Dice brings more than 20 years of experience in municipal government, including more than seven years in executive leadership roles.
"I am very pleased to announce these appointments as both professionals have demonstrated exceptional leadership, deep institutional knowledge, and a strong commitment to our community during their time in the interim roles,” City Manager Peter Zanoni said. “Their extensive experience will be invaluable as we continue to advance key initiatives and deliver high-quality services for the residents of Corpus Christi."
For more information, media representatives can contact Public Information Manager Robert Gonzales at 361-826-3233 or robertg8@corpuschristitx.gov.
Ernesto De La Garza Michael Dice
