My Bio
Riakos L. Adams is a retired United States Army officer, disabled veteran, and lifelong public servant who has dedicated his career to leadership, accountability, and service to the community. After enlisting in the Army in 1994, he was later commissioned as an officer through Howard University ROTC in 2000. He retired in January 2017 as a Major after 22+ years of service, having served on around the world in combat, diplomatic, inter-agency, training, and armistice assignments.
During his military career, Adams earned numerous awards and decorations, including the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, and the Korean Defense Service Medal. His service instilled a leadership philosophy rooted in discipline, integrity, and mission-focused execution—values he continues to bring to public office.
Adams holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of the District of Columbia, a master’s degree in Business Management from Webster University, and has completed doctoral coursework in Human Services at the University of Arizona Global Campus.
A firm believer that service does not end with retirement, Adams has remained deeply engaged in civic leadership. He serves as President of Killeen Volunteers, Inc. and Executive Director of the Central Texas Youth Volunteer Corps, participating and leading volunteer initiatives that strengthen neighborhoods, support youth, and meet critical community needs. His past service includes the Bell County Child Welfare Board, Killeen ISD School Health Advisory Council (Co-Chair), Killeen ISD Education Foundation Board, Killeen Community Development Advisory Committee (Chair), Killeen Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee, Killeen Planning and Zoning Commission, and as a Volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocate.
Adams was appointed to the Killeen City Council in 2022 and 2023 to fill vacancies, elected Council Member At Large in 2024, and elected Mayor Pro Tem in 2025. He represents Killeen on the Killeen–Temple Metropolitan Planning Organization, where he serves as Vice Chair of the Policy Board, and as an alternate to the Central Texas Council of Governments Executive Board. He also serves on the Killeen Sister Cities Board of Directors.
At the state and national level, Adams is a recognized leader in municipal governance. He serves on the board of the Texas Association of Black City Council Members, an affiliate of the Texas Municipal League, and served as Vice Chair of the National League of Cities Transportation and Infrastructure Services Federal Advocacy Committee and Vice Chair of the Military Communities Council. He is currently Chair of the National League of Cities Military Communities Council and serves as Director-at-Large for the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials.
Adams is a Life Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., a Prince Hall Mason and Shriner, and a life member of numerous veteran service organizations, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, Military Order of World Wars, Military Police Regimental Association, American Legion, and others. He has also held membership in Toastmasters, National Exchange Club, and Rotary International.
Riakos Adams brings proven executive leadership, real-world experience, and a steady hand to the work of city government. As Mayor, he is committed to transparency, fiscal responsibility, public safety, infrastructure investment, and building a Killeen that works for every resident.
My Key Issues
Public Safety, Trust & Community Confidence
Public safety is about more than emergency response — it’s about trust, visibility, and confidence in city leadership. I support fully resourcing first responders, strengthening prevention and mental health partnerships, and improving communication so residents are informed, not surprised. Safety works best when neighborhoods are engaged, concerns are addressed early, and every resident — long-term, newcomer, civilian, veteran, or military family — feels protected and respected.
Smart Growth, Infrastructure & Flood Resilience
Killeen is growing — and growth must be managed responsibly. That means fixing roads, improving traffic flow, planning for long-term water and utility needs, and ensuring development pays its fair share. It also means directly addressing drainage and residential flooding issues that impacted families across the city. Growth should strengthen neighborhoods, not strain them, and residents deserve a voice early — before decisions are finalized.
Strong Neighborhoods, Local Leadership & Quality of Life
Strong neighborhoods are built through responsive city services, fair and consistent code enforcement, clean public spaces, and parks people actually use. City leadership should be present in neighborhoods — not just at City Hall. I support developing neighborhood-level leadership and engagement opportunities so residents are informed, connected, and able to raise concerns without navigating complicated systems. When neighborhoods are strong, the entire city benefits.
A Diverse, Inclusive Economy That Works for Everyone
Killeen’s future depends on a strong, diverse local economy. While our military community remains an important part of the city’s identity, Killeen is seeing more civilians, veterans, entrepreneurs, and families choosing to put down roots here. City leadership must support small businesses, workforce development, and infrastructure that attracts employers — while coordinating with Fort Hood and supporting military families as part of the broader community. Economic opportunity should be accessible to everyone who calls Killeen home.
Youth Development & Empowerment
Killeen’s future will be shaped by the young people we prepare today. I believe youth development is a core city priority tied directly to public safety, economic growth, and community stability. As Mayor, I will champion a coordinated city strategy that builds leadership, expands workforce pathways, strengthens mentorship, and creates meaningful civic engagement opportunities so every young person in Killeen has a clear path to purpose and success.
Send Me a Message
Have questions or suggestions? I would love to hear from you!