Lonnie Foley Jr., Director of the Manchester Water and Sewer Department, Manchester, Tennessee
Lonnie Foley Jr. serves as the Director of the Manchester Water and Sewer Department. He brings nearly three decades of experience in civil engineering, public works leadership, and infrastructure program management. Throughout his career, Lonnie has led the planning and delivery of complex utility and facility improvement projects that enhance public safety, operational reliability, and long-term community resilience. Before relocating to Tennessee, Lonnie served as Deputy Director of Public Works & Utilities for the City of Galveston, Texas. In that role, he provided executive oversight of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), Stormwater and Streets, Water and Wastewater Utilities, Traffic Operations, and Construction Management. He managed multi-year capital programs, operational budgets, and cross-department coordination while ensuring regulatory compliance, fiscal discipline, and timely project delivery. In addition to his municipal leadership, Lonnie brings valuable private sector leadership experience. This dual perspective allows him to effectively manage consultants, contractors, and internal teams while maintaining a strong focus on accountability and results. Lonnie maintains active membership in several leading professional organizations, including the American Water Works Association (AWWA), International City/County Management Association (ICMA), and the Water Environment Federation (WEF). Through these affiliations, he remains engaged with industry best practices, emerging technologies, infrastructure planning strategies, and evolving regulatory requirements that support sustainable utility operations and community development. Lonnie’s transition to Tennessee represents both a professional advancement and a continued commitment to serving growing communities. As a servant leader, he emphasizes strategic planning, transparent communication, and performance-driven leadership. He works closely with elected officials, staff, regional partners, and residents to align infrastructure investments with the city's long-term priorities.
Outside of his professional responsibilities, Lonnie values family, mentorship, and ongoing professional development within the utility community.