MARTINSVILLE, VA
The City of Martinsville is pleased to announce the appointment of Eric W. Payne, Esq. as the City Attorney Designee.
Payne was appointed during a Special Call session of the Martinsville City Council on August 15, 2024.
Currently an Attorney at Law in the District of Columbia, Payne will officially assume the title of City Attorney upon his admission to the Virginia State Bar.
In addition, he will serve as the acting Managing Director of Development until that position is filled.
With over 30 years of legal and governmental experience, Payne brings a distinguished career to Martinsville.
His extensive background includes 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.
Notably, Payne played a pivotal role as the Contracting Officer for the District of Columbia, where he was instrumental in enforcing accountability and ethical standards in public procurement.
His dedication to public service was further demonstrated by his courageous whistleblowing, which exposed corruption and advocated for greater government transparency.
Payne’s career began early in Washington, D.C., where he served as one of the youngest aides in the Clinton presidential administration.
His work in the Office of Communications Research at the White House showcased his adeptness in federal governance and earned him recognition as a rising star in public service.
In addition to his impressive domestic career, Payne has gained international experience in South Africa and Saudi Arabia.
His work managing multi-billion-dollar foreign military sales contracts in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, exemplifies his capability in handling complex legal challenges.
Payne also operates his own law practice, where he has successfully represented clients in intricate governmental and commercial legal matters.
Payne is a graduate of the University of Arkansas School of Law and has pursued advanced coursework toward a Master of Law in Government Procurement Law at George Washington University Law School.
He is admitted to the Bars of Illinois (inactive) and the District of Columbia and is eligible for admission to the Virginia State Bar.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the City of Martinsville as its City Attorney,” said Payne. “I look forward to collaborating with the City Council, the City Manager, and all city departments to uphold the highest standards of legal and ethical governance for the benefit of the citizens of Martinsville.”
City officials express their enthusiasm for Payne’s appointment:
“We are extremely fortunate to have Mr. Payne join our staff,” said Mayor LC Jones. “His knowledge and expertise will greatly benefit our City, demonstrating that we can attract top-tier talent.”
Vice Mayor Aaron Rawls added, “It’s almost like fate that Mr. Payne’s experience aligns perfectly with our needs. We couldn’t have asked for a better fit.”
Councilwoman Kathy Lawson noted, “His vast experience in various areas fills a significant void for us. We’re excited to welcome him to our team.”
Councilwoman Tammy Pearson remarked, “Mr. Payne’s background is impressive, and I believe he will be a wonderful addition to our City.”
Councilman Lawrence Mitchell emphasized, “This appointment is an excellent solution to our vacancy. We’re very pleased to have Mr. Payne on board.”
Payne will officially begin his role as acting Managing Director of Development on September 1, 2024.