Team

Jesus “Jay” Chapa became Fort Worth’s first Hispanic city manager on January 28, 2025.

A highly respected leader with extensive experience in local government. His visionary leadership, proven ability to deliver results, private sector experience and commitment to innovation have made a lasting impact across Fort Worth. During more than two decades of service with the City of Fort Worth, Chapa excelled in roles ranging from deputy city manager to director of housing and economic development. In these various roles, he implemented policies that have strengthened the city’s economy, enhanced public safety and ensured financial stability.

Chapa is recognized by a diverse group of community stakeholders and elected officials for effective management and for providing innovative solutions. He is also known for his collaborative leadership style and ability to bring diverse voices to the table. From HOA neighborhood meetings to civic gatherings to business boardrooms, Chapa is known for finding solutions while being mindful of the city’s taxpayers.

He has held numerous high-profile positions at the City of Fort Worth:

• Deputy city manager (February 2020-January 2022)
• Assistant city manager (July 2015-February 2020)
• Director of housing and economic development (November 2008-July 2015)
• Interim chief financial officer (May 2013-November 2013)
• Director of economic and community development (April 2007-November 2008)
• Deputy director of economic and community development (June 2005-April 2007)
• Assistant director of the water utility (February 1994-August 2002)

Most recently, Jay founded his own consulting agency that provided consulting and advisory services to businesses, public entities, and individuals related to economic development and government affairs. As Fort Worth’s deputy city manager, Chapa provided high-level support and assistance to the city manager; managed City departments; provided policy recommendations to the mayor and City Council; and managed large multi-departmental projects and initiatives, among other duties.

Chapa holds a master’s degree in public administration from the University of North Texas and a bachelor’s degree in history from Texas Tech University.

Prior to the City of Fort Worth, Reginald (Reggie) Zeno has been finance director for the City of Cincinnati since June 2010. He was finance director for the City of New Orleans from 2002-2010 and held chief of staff and budget director positions for Transit Management of Southeast Louisiana from 2000-2002. He also worked for the New Orleans Public Schools from 1980-2000 in several positions, including interim chief financial officer for several years.

Zeno is a member of the Government Finance Officers Association, where he serves as a reviewer for the Distinguished Budget Award Program.

Zeno holds bachelor of science in business administration and master of business administration degrees from Tulane University.

Alex Laufer serves as the City Treasurer and Assistant Finance Director for the City of Fort Worth. In this role, he oversees the City’s debt management, cash and investment operations, and banking relationships, supporting the City’s long-term capital planning and financial sustainability.

Alex leads the development and execution of the City’s financing strategies and manages complex treasury and payment operations. He works closely with executive leadership, elected officials, and external financial partners on matters related to debt issuance, liquidity management, investment oversight, and financial policy. His focus is on sound fiscal stewardship, transparency, and maintaining Fort Worth’s strong access to the capital markets.

As Debt and Compliance Manager for the City of Fort Worth, Brit oversees all long-term debt activities, which includes the management of nearly $2.9 billion in outstanding debt, investment of proceeds, post-issuance compliance, debt budgeting and accounting, as well as rating agency and investor relations.  Prior to joining the City, Brit served as Treasury Manager for the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.  He received his Bachelor of Science in Economics from Southern Methodist University.