Martinsville City Council members appointed Eric W. Payne, Esq. as the City Attorney Designee during a special called meeting on August 15.
Payne is currently an Attorney at Law in the District of Columbia. Once he is admitted to the bar in Virginia, he will receive the title of City Attorney, and also serve as the acting Managing Director of Development until that position is filled.
Payne brings more than 30 years of legal and government experience to Martinsville, according to a release from the city. Throughout his career, he has earned a reputation for integrity, leadership, and a deep commitment to public service. He has held significant roles in various governmental and legal institutions, including serving as the Director of Contracts for the District of Columbia’s Office of the Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Staff at the United States Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration Bureau, and a senior role at the Chicago Housing Authority.
As the former Contracting Officer for the District of Columbia’s Office of the Chief Financial Officer, Payne was crucial in ensuring accountability and ethical standards in public procurement. His efforts led to significant legal victories and reforms, underscoring his commitment to public service and the rule of law. Payne is widely recognized for his role as a whistleblower in the District of Columbia, where he exposed corruption and advocated for transparency in government operations, the release stated. His integrity and courage in the face of adversity earned him respect and national attention.
Payne’s long history and love of public service began early in his career, the release stated. He was among the youngest aides to serve in the Clinton presidential administration, where he contributed significantly to national policy discussions and initiatives. His role as a Staff Assistant in the Office of Communications Research at the White House demonstrated his ability to navigate the complexities of federal governance at a young age, earning him recognition as a rising star in the public service arena.
Following his early experiences in Washington, D.C., Payne continued to build an impressive legal career. He has held significant roles in various governmental and legal institutions, including international stints in South Africa and Saudi Arabia. His work has consistently been marked by a commitment to ethical governance and transparency. In addition to his public service, Payne has operated his own law practice, successfully representing clients in complex governmental and commercial legal matters. His experience in managing high value contracts and his work in international settings, such as managing several multi-billion-dollar foreign military sales contracts during his tenure in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, have equipped him with the skills necessary to navigate the multifaceted legal challenges that may come with the role of City Attorney.
A graduate of the University of Arkansas School of Law, Payne has completed coursework toward a Master of Law in Government Procurement Law at the George Washington University Law School. He is admitted to the Bars of Illinois (inactive) and the District of Columbia and is eligible for Virginia State Bar admission.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the City of Martinsville as its City Attorney,” said Payne. “I look forward to working closely with the City Council, the City Manager, and all city departments to ensure that we uphold the highest standards of legal and ethical governance for the good of the citizens of Martinsville.”
“We are extremely fortunate to have Mr. Payne join our staff, bringing his knowledge and expertise to our City,” said Mayor LC Jones. “Bringing high-caliber talent to our staff has been a priority, and this hire shows we can attract that caliber of talent to our city.”
“It could not have worked out better for the City of Martinsville,” said Vice Mayor Aaron Rawls. “We really need his experience; it’s almost like fate how this worked out.”
“He was very impressive during the process and is knowledgeable, he has vast experience in many different areas that we certainly have a void,” added council member Kathy Lawson. “He will make a wonderful addition to our staff here.”
“I’m looking forward to having someone here in person, especially Mr. Payne,” said council member Tammy Pearson. “I think he’ll be a wonderful addition to our City with his background.”
“I was very impressed by Mr. Payne, this is an excellent solution to our vacancy as we very much need a city attorney,” said council member Lawrence Mitchell.
Payne will begin his role as acting Managing Director of Development on September 1.
