Lufkin City Council has approved the appointment of Kristi Skillern as the new city attorney.

Skillern is a Texas native who received her undergraduate degree from Baylor University. She went on to earn a law degree from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio in the early nineties. Since that time, she has worked in the criminal and civil arenas, bringing nearly 30 years of trial experience.

The role of city attorney is to serve as legal advisor to the city and to all officers and departments of the city, according to Interim City Manager Kevin Gee.

“We feel fortunate to find a seasoned attorney with a varied background who can assist the city in this role,” Gee said.

Skillern said she is humbled by the opportunity to serve the citizens of Lufkin.

“I am looking forward to working with city leadership to make what is already a great and growing community even better,” Skillern said. “I am also excited about engaging actively in the community and participating in all of the wonderful things Lufkin has to offer.”

Her first day in the office will be August 1.