Darren Tray Payne

Tray Payne, a West Texas native from Post, is a seasoned attorney known for his integrity and community commitment. After earning a BBA in Accounting from Texas Tech University in 1996, Tray began his career as an auditor at Bollinger, Segars, Gilbert and Moss. He then attended Oklahoma City University School of Law, excelling in leadership roles and trial competitions. Tray returned to Lubbock in 2000 to practice law, first as a general practitioner and later as an Assistant District Attorney. He quickly rose to Chief of Homicide by age 31 and served as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Project Safe Neighborhood initiative. In 2009, Tray founded Payne, Powell, Truitt & Chandler, where he built a reputation for his dedication to clients and a no-nonsense approach. Beyond law, Tray taught continuing education courses and served as an adjunct professor at Texas Tech University. He also earned his Texas Real Estate Broker’s license, brokering agents since 2005. Tray is deeply involved in his community, serving on the Board of Parkridge Medical Clinic, the University Medical Center Board of Managers, and coaching Lubbock Challenger Little League. In 2022, Tray was elected Mayor of Lubbock, focusing on public safety, infrastructure improvements, and supporting first responders. His leadership secured a $200 million bond for road projects, improving Lubbock’s streets and economy. Tray chose not to seek re-election in 2024 but left a lasting impact during his two-year term. Tray now practices law full-time at Payne, Powell, Truitt & Chandler, representing businesses, organizations, and the Combined Law Enforcement Association of Texas. He remains active in community service, volunteering for Lubbock Meals on Wheels and supporting local causes. Tray and his wife, Heidi, are dedicated to their family and Lubbock.