Denison announces new finance director

The city of Denison has a new set of eyes watching its finances and guiding the city through future investments. The city formally named Laurie Alsabbagh as its new finance director, effectively promoting her from the No. 2 seat in the department.

Alsabbagh’s promotion comes following the promotion of former Finance Director Renee Waggoner to the new assistant city manager position earlier this year. In turn, Waggoner’s promotion shortly followed the departure of Greg Smith from the city manager role.

“Those who know her know that I have some pretty big shoes to fill,” Alsabbagh said, describing Waggoner.” I can’t imagine working for a better organization or serving a greater community. I am both blessed and proud to be a part of team Denison.”

For her part, Alsabbagh has worked with the city for nearly 15 years, with a focus on finance. She joined the city in 2007 as an accountant and was promoted to the assistant finance director position in 2012 where she has worked for the past decade.

Outside of her finance work, Alsabbagh has also worked with several businesses that she has owned with her husband. She also had a past career as a teacher in the city of Jordan, Texas.

“We are excited to have Laurie in this new role, knowing she brings a wealth of knowledge, a willingness to serve and leads with integrity,” Waggoner said, complimenting her former No. 2. “We look forward to working alongside Laurie as we move Denison forward.”