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Bailey: Walker latest in long line of short-tenured city managers in Lakeland

By , Daily Memphian Updated: November 07, 2025 12:53 PM CT | Published: November 07, 2025 12:52 PM CT
Clay Bailey
Daily Memphian

Clay Bailey

Clay Bailey, a lifelong Memphian, has worked as a reporter in the city four decades. He concentrated on suburban coverage for the bulk of his career, except for a stint as sports editor of The Daily Memphian when it launched in September 2018. He now is suburban editor and also serves as a freelance sports writer for The Associated Press.

That revolving door at the Lakeland city manager’s office keeps on spinning, doesn’t it?

This week, a special meeting of the suburb’s Board of Commissioners turned into the departure notice for City Manager Michael Walker, the latest in a string of leaders to have “former” added to their resume from Lakeland. 

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City of Lakeland Michael Walker city manager tenure Clay Bailey Subscriber Only

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