The City of Round Rock’s lead attorney is stepping back after 45 years in the position. 

Stephan “Steve” Sheets has served as Round Rock’s City Attorney since Oct. 3, 1977, at a time when the city’s population was approximately 5,000. As the founder and managing partner of law firm Sheets & Crossfield PLLC, Sheets will continue to assist the City in matters of economic development and serve as legal counsel for the Transportation and Economic Development Corporation (Type B) and the Brushy Creek Regional Utility Authority (BCRUA). Stephanie Sandre of Sheets & Crossfield will assume the role of City of Attorney following Sheets’ retirement on Sept. 30.

Mayor Craig Morgan praised Sheets’ integrity and work at the Thursday, Sept. 22 City Council meeting during a presentation to recognize the outgoing City Attorney.

“The impact you’ve had on the city…your hand is on all of this and it will always be,” Morgan said. “You care — you truly do care — about what has happened in this city and its trajectory.”

“You’re an amazing human and truly have a servant’s heart,” City Manager Laurie Hadley said. “I’m so glad I got to spend the last 11 and a half years with you.”

Sheets’ work has created a lasting impact on the City of Round Rock and the region, especially in the area of economic development. He negotiated incentive agreements with Dell Computer Corporation, Emerson Process Management, Simon Property Group, IKEA, Texas State University, Texas A&M, Austin Community College, Scott & White Hospital, Seton Hospital, Bass Pro Shop and Kalahari Resorts and Conventions. He was also instrumental in negotiating an agreement with Nolan Ryan and his family that resulted the creation of Round Rock’s Triple A minor league team, the Round Rock Express. Sheets’ guidance was instrumental to several infrastructure and quality of life projects that have served and will continue to serve Round Rock residents as the community continues to grow, including Old Settlers Park, Play for All Abilities Park, the Round Rock Public Library, Brushy Creek Trail, Public Safety Training Center, and regional water and wastewater treatment systems. He has served on several non-profit boards in the community and is a past president of the Williamson County Bar Association. 

“While 45 years is a really long time, I can honestly say I’ve enjoyed every single day,” Sheets said. “It’s been a tremendous honor and privilege to serve the City’s elected officials and staff, as well as the citizens of this City. It has truly been an awesome ride.”