Florence, AZ – After more than four decades of public service, including over six years of dedicated leadership in Florence, Town Manager Bruce Walls has announced his retirement effective August 1, 2026. He will continue serving as Town Manager until that time.
Walls was appointed Town Manager in September 2024 after serving as Interim Town Manager beginning in April 2024. Prior to that, he served as Florence’s Police Chief starting in 2019, where he led efforts to rebuild the department, addressing staffing shortages and improving recruitment to better serve the community. Throughout his career, Walls has demonstrated steady leadership and a strong commitment to public service, with a focus on enhancing customer service, improving performance, and advancing community partnerships.
During his time as Town Manager, Walls helped guide Florence through a critical period, strengthening operations and positioning the organization for long-term success. He supported the development of the Town Council’s newly adopted Strategic Plan, helping align staff efforts with the Council’s long-term vision for the community. Under his leadership, the Town made progress on key infrastructure improvements, advancing Council priorities to improve transportation throughout the community and enhance the reliability of water and wastewater services. He also led the recruitment of several key leadership positions, including a new Police Chief, Public Works Director, and Utilities Director, helping to build a leadership team that will carry the Town forward.
“Bruce Walls has been an exceptional leader and a dedicated public servant,” said Mayor Keith Eaton. “From his service as Police Chief to his time as Town Manager, Bruce stepped in when Florence needed steady leadership. He provided continuity during a time of transition, strengthened the organization, and set a clear direction for the future. His efforts to build a capable leadership team will have a lasting impact on this community. On behalf of the Town, we thank Bruce for his dedication, integrity, and commitment to Florence, and we wish him and his family all the very best in this next chapter.”
Walls shared that serving the Florence community has been one of the greatest honors of his career. He expressed appreciation for the residents, business owners, elected officials, and Town staff he has worked alongside, and pride in the progress the community has made together.
Following his retirement, Walls plans to remain part of the Florence community and spend more time with his wife of 25 years, Amber.
The Town of Florence extends its sincere gratitude to Bruce Walls for his many years of dedicated service and leadership, and wishes him a happy and well-deserved retirement.