David L. Long serves as the District 1 representative on the Tyler City Council, bringing more than three decades of experience in public service, public safety, executive leadership, and organizational management to the position. A longtime member of the Tyler community, David is committed to responsible government, fiscal accountability, public safety, transparency, and ensuring that residents have an accessible and responsive voice in city government.
David retired from the Tyler Police Department in February 2026 after 32 years of service, concluding his law enforcement career as Assistant Chief of Police. Throughout his career, he served in numerous operational, investigative, tactical, and administrative leadership positions, including SWAT and tactical incident command. His responsibilities included directing tactical operations, overseeing specialized law enforcement units, managing the department’s budget and financial resources, developing organizational policies, and leading initiatives designed to improve public safety and operational effectiveness. His budget management experience included fiscal oversight, resource allocation, and long-term financial planning. Before joining the Tyler Police Department in 1994, David served in the United States Coast Guard.
Throughout his career, David has been actively involved in leadership development, strategic planning, organizational analysis, and process improvement. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy’s 240th Session and the Leadership Command College of the Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas at Sam Houston State University. He has also provided leadership and supervisory training to law enforcement professionals and municipal employees, emphasizing effective decision-making, accountability, and organizational effectiveness.
In addition to his public safety career, David has worked with City of Tyler departments on organizational development and operational improvement initiatives, applying Lean Six Sigma principles to enhance efficiency, accountability, and the delivery of municipal services. His experience working across city departments has provided him with a broad understanding of municipal operations, budgeting, public infrastructure, and the challenges associated with balancing community needs and available resources.
As a member of the Tyler City Council, David is dedicated to maintaining the quality of life that makes Tyler a desirable place to live, work, and raise a family. His priorities include responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources, effective public safety services, thoughtful infrastructure planning, and open communication between city government and the residents it serves. He believes effective representation begins with listening, providing accurate information, and ensuring that residents’ concerns receive meaningful attention.
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