WASHINGTON CO. CLERK REPORTS LOW BIRTH NUMBERS IN 2019

  

Washington County recorded its lowest number of births in over 20 years in 2019.

According to Washington County Clerk Beth Rothermel, as of today (Monday), 227 births were reported and filed last year.  That number is the lowest recorded since 1995, when Rothermel began working as county clerk.  2018 saw 321 recorded births.

In comparison, the county recorded 277 deaths to date in 2019, 50 more deaths than births.  However, those numbers are down from the 287 deaths seen in 2018.

The highest number of births in any year, during Rothermel’s time as county clerk, was 507 in 2008.  Meanwhile, the highest number of deaths was 362 in 2014.

2019’s low birth numbers could be attributed to the continued lack of permanent OB/GYN coverage in Brenham, as Baylor Scott and White’s Labor and Delivery Care Department continues to look to fill its vacancy at the position.  In the meantime, while searching for long-term support, the hospital continues to provide board-certified OB/GYN backup and care for expectant mothers.

Other 2019 statistics recorded to date by the county clerk’s office include 210 marriage licenses sold, 8,104 official records filed, and 23,259 registered voters.  Official records include deeds, contracts, affidavits, oil and gas leases, and other documents that are filed for public record.  Rothermel says she expects the county’s number of registered voters to increase, as the March primary elections draw nearer.