CAROLYN MILLER TO RETIRE AS BRENHAM CITY MANAGER IN MARCH
Brenham City Manager Carolyn Miller has announced her plans to retire, effective in March.
(courtesy City of Brenham)
In a press release today (Friday), Miller said her choice was spurred by a desire to spend more time with family.
Miller said, “The decision for retirement doesn’t come easily. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time serving the community and the friendships of those I’ve served with.”
Miller joined the City of Brenham in 2005 and was promoted to director of finance shortly after. She was named the chief financial officer in June 2009 and assistant city manager in April 2015. In September 2021, she was appointed as interim city manager, and she took on the role full-time in January 2022.
Brenham Mayor Atwood Kenjura said, “We are excited for her as she enjoys this next phase of life but we will miss all that she brings to the city.”
Arrangements are being made for a retirement party for Miller, and details will be announced as they are finalized.
KWHI is attempting to schedule a time to visit with Miller to further discuss her announcement. Reflections of Miller, provided by City of Brenham Communications Manager Melinda Gordon, can be read below.
The role of a City Manager is one of strategic leadership, collaboration, and visionary planning. Carolyn reflects on a journey marked by transformative projects, community partnerships, and a deep commitment to progress.
The city's heartbeat is often measured in its leadership transitions, and during Carolyn’s tenure, the City witnessed the seamless transition of the outgoing Mayor Milton Tate, and newly elected mayor, Atwood Kenjura, and a few new city council members. "I believe in the power of a smooth transition. It sets the tone for the city's future and ensures that the vision of the newly elected officials aligns with the needs of our residents," Miller said.
A city thrives when its leaders collaborate with all stakeholders. Miller has been a pivotal force in continuing to strengthen relationships with community partners, including the county judge, commissioners, and business leaders. Through open communication and shared vision, Miller fostered an environment of cooperation and partnership. She states, "I've always believed in the strength of unity. By working together, we can achieve far more than we can individually. Our partnerships have been instrumental in addressing the unique challenges our city faces."
Among the many projects over the years, Miller sees the groundbreaking of Fire Station #2, the expansion of the water treatment facility, and the establishment of a second water source as some of the most impactful and significant. "I'm immensely proud of the strides we've made in building a more resilient and sustainable city. These projects lay the groundwork for a future that is both secure and vibrant," said Miller.
Miller looks back with gratitude and humility. "Serving as City Manager has been a true pleasure. It's a role that demands dedication, passion, and a commitment to the well-being of the community. I will finish out my time in 2024 with a sense of fulfillment, knowing that together, we've made Brenham a better place."
Maybe now the Brenham Fire Department can get the support they have needed for a while.
She is actually putting a damper on the gold-plated kitchen appliances and $4,000 lazy boy couches that the fireman are requesting.
Nothing surprises me with this Fire Dept anymore. Crazy.
The fire department is getting a whole new station, a brand new fire engine that costs something like a million dollars, and a whole bunch of new firefighters are being hired. This is all since she’s been City Manager. What is it you think they need and aren’t getting?
Job well done