2021 RECAP: BRENHAM MAYOR MILTON TATE

  

As 2021 draws to a close, KWHI is visiting with Washington County officials to discuss the happenings of the year and look forward to 2022.

We begin with Brenham Mayor Milton Tate, going over the city’s accomplishments and challenges this year and what to expect next year.

Some of the positives Tate pointed to included hundreds of permits issued for new residential and commercial development, the groundbreaking for the Baker Katz shopping center, progress made with economic development projects like Project Black Stamp and Project Silver Crayon, expansion of local parks and facilities, and the opening of the Dreamliner Diner at the Brenham Municipal Airport.

Tate said as a whole, the city enjoyed a successful 2021.

 

This year was not without its hurdles, however, as the city continues to work on a plan to run the airport after dissolving the Airport Advisory Board earlier this year.  The city is also in a transition with several leadership positions, with Carolyn Miller and Roger Williams serving as the respective interim city manager and interim fire chief following the termination of James Fisher and firing of Ricky Boeker.  In addition, the city is working through litigation associated with high gas bills caused by Winter Storm Uri.

Tate said the city is also looking strongly for a second water supply source.

 

Tate expects infrastructure will be a priority next year, including capital projects such as expanding the water plant, refurbishing the sanitary sewer plant and getting utilities out to new economic development projects.  Roads will also see an upgrade using federal funds.

 

Tate first took office as mayor of Brenham after a special election in 2003, succeeding Walter Schwartz.  He has since been elected five times, most recently defeating Dorothy Morgan in 2019.