WASHINGTON CO. JUDGE JOHN DURRENBERGER NOT SEEKING RE-ELECTION

  

Washington County Judge John Durrenberger has announced he will not pursue a third term in office next year.

Durrenberger announced in a release this (Wednesday) morning that he and his wife, Cherryl, have decided not to seek re-election in the 2026 primary. 

First taking office in 2019 after winning against County Judge John Brieden in the 2018 primary, Durrenberger said it has been an honor to serve as county judge, and that his work to help meet the needs of taxpayers and better the community has been “a true blessing” and “incredibly rewarding.”  He said he is confident in the county’s direction and, after much thought and prayer, feels it is time to step aside.

As county judge, Durrenberger said some of the county’s initiatives have included public safety support by way of pensions for volunteer firefighters, purchasing vehicles for first responders, creating new EMS stations and establishing air ambulance services.  He also cited improvements in technology and record-keeping, developing and strengthening relationships with the cities of Brenham and Burton and other government and economic development partners, and investments in the salaries and benefits of county employees, while maintaining a focus on balanced and sustainable budgeting practices.

As Precinct 2 Commissioner Candice Bullock also prepares to step away at the end of next year, Durrenberger said he hopes that the next elected representatives follow through on the county’s various projects, including at the Expo grounds, the new records storage facility, and the judicial center.  He said he will continue to work with the commissioners court to plan for those efforts, coordinate the growth of county departments, and preserve the county’s prosperity and public safety.

Prior to taking office as county judge, Durrenberger held leadership roles in the wholesale beer industry for 50 years.  He has been an active member of the Texas Association of Counties, the Blinn College Advisory Board, local economic development initiatives, the Juvenile Board, and the Republican Club.  He was recently elected Chairman of the Brazos Valley Council of Governments. 

Durrenberger’s announcement comes after two candidates, Douglas Cone and Brad Tegeler, have declared their intent to run for the judge’s seat in the March Republican Primary.  The first day to officially file for a place on the ballot is Saturday, while the deadline is Monday, December 8^th.