Stephen Terrell dedicated nearly three decades to public service in the City of Allen, serving as Mayor from 1997 to 2020 and previously as a City Councilmember from 1991 to 1997. Under his leadership, Allen experienced significant growth and development, with Mr. Terrell playing a central role in advancing infrastructure, economic development, and regional collaboration. In addition to his local leadership, Mr. Terrell represented Allen on numerous influential regional boards and councils.
His service includes terms on the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) Executive Board, where he served as President (2013–2014), Vice President, Secretary, and Immediate Past President. He was a voting representative for the Dallas Regional Mobility Committee (2008–2020), served on the Regional Transportation Council, and chaired the North Central Texas Emergency Communications District Board. He also held board positions with the North Texas Commission and contributed to planning, transportation, and emergency communications initiatives across the region.
Mr. Terrell's commitment to public service has earned him widespread recognition, including the Allen Chamber of Commerce’s “Living Legend” Award (2020), “Citizen of the Year” (2005), and “Community Partner” Award (2002). He also received the William Pitstick Award for regional cooperation from NCTCOG, the RON HARRIS Public Official Business Partner of the Year Award (2009) and was named one of the '21 for the 21st Century' by the Collin County Business Journal.