Description

Hosted by the Small Business Community Committee

Richardson on the Rise: What City Growth Means for Small Businesses

Get a front-row seat to the initiatives, opportunities, and changes shaping Richardson’s business landscape in the year ahead. Hear directly from the Richardson City Manager, Don Magner and Director of Economic Development, Chris Shacklett as they unpack upcoming projects, funding programs, workforce partnerships, FIFA-related opportunities, and new ways the city is supporting small businesses. If you want to grow, prepare, or simply stay ahead of what’s coming, this is the conversation you don’t want to miss! 

About the speakers:

Don Magner has served as City Manager of Richardson since March 1, 2022, overseeing the coordination and operations of all City departments. In this role, he leads the City’s financial and budget management processes while directing planning and economic development efforts. His office also conducts research, develops policy recommendations, and evaluates public programs and services in alignment with City Council priorities.

Magner began his career with the City of Richardson in 1996 and brings nearly three decades of municipal experience. He has served in multiple departments, including Human Resources, Building Inspection, Community Services, and Development Services, before moving to the City Manager’s Office in 2012. There, he has held several leadership roles, including Assistant City Manager, First Assistant City Manager, and Deputy City Manager.

A dedicated community leader, Magner holds a master’s degree from The University of Texas at Arlington and a bachelor’s degree from The University of Texas at Dallas. He is active in numerous professional and civic organizations and serves on several advisory boards, including Methodist Richardson Medical Center and The University of Texas at Dallas. Magner is the fifth City Manager appointed since Richardson adopted its council-manager form of government in 1956.

Chris Shacklett serves as the Director of Economic Development for the City of Richardson, bringing more than 17 years of experience with the City and a deep understanding of its development and growth strategies. Appointed in 2024 after serving as Interim Director, Chris has played an integral role in advancing key economic development initiatives, programs, and projects that support businesses and the broader community.

Prior to his current role, Chris served as Assistant Director of Development Services–Planning and has held several positions within the City, including Development Review Manager, Senior Planner, Planner, and Engineering Technician. Before joining the City of Richardson, he worked in the commercial real estate industry, providing GIS, marketing, demographic, and research support for The Weitzman Group.

Chris leads the City’s Economic Development Department, established in 2022 to strengthen partnerships and expand opportunities that drive sustainable growth. He holds a master’s degree in City and Regional Planning from The University of Texas at Arlington and a bachelor’s degree in Geography/GIS from Southwest Texas State University. Chris is a member of the American Planning Association and the American Institute of Certified Planners.