Mayor's Minute with Atwood Kenjura

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December 2024

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends. It is a special time of the year to give thanks for the many blessings we all receive. December, as always, is a very busy month with lots of activities planned to help celebrate the holidays.

Christmas Stroll and Parade

One of the biggest events in the City is the annual Christmas Stroll and Parade. There will be two days to celebrate the event this year, December 6 and 7. On Friday, Dec 6, a Cold Nights Holiday Tunes concert will take place with the popular band Suede performing a blend of holiday and rockin' tunes. This will occur at the Commerce St Parking Lot (Lot E) at 7 pm. This free event is sponsored by Dahman & Associates, Brenham National Bank, Must be Heaven, Seidel Schroeder, and the City of Brenham. Please bring your lawn chairs.

On Saturday, Dec. 7, the Christmas Stroll downtown activities start at 1:00 pm, and all the stores will be open for your shopping pleasure to help with your Christmas gift lists. Also, a Kid Zone Party (1:00 pm to 4:00 pm ) will be located in the parking lot on the corner of Alamo and Douglas (across from Morris Hall at the Simon). This should be a fun event, with the highlight being a snow machine and several other attractions, including rides on the fire engine traveling through downtown and live horseback rides for the kids. This year’s holiday-lighted parade, “Peace on Earth” begins at 6 pm with festive floats and the arrival of Santa Claus!

Smithsonian Exhibit

The City of Brenham is honored to host a truly exceptional event: the Smithsonian Exhibit, which will be displayed from December 7 to January 19, 2025. Brenham was selected as one of only seven cities in Texas out of more than 50 applicants to host this prestigious exhibit. To officially open the event, there were three ribbon-cutting ceremonies on Saturday, December 7. The schedule was as follows:

• 9:00 am: Camptown Experience at 900 E Alamo St
• 9:30 am: Freedom Colonies of Washington County at Belle's Alley (entrance through Toubin Park at 208 S Park St)
• 10:00 am: A Century at the Simon at Morris Hall at the Simon (106 S. Douglas St.)

There is no admission charge for this outstanding event. I was able to have a sneak preview of the Simon exhibit, and I must say it is an exceptional venue that depicts 100 years of history for this iconic building. A big thank you goes out to Jennifer Eckermann and her staff for putting all of this together. The hours for both exhibits are Monday - Friday, 10 am – 4 pm; Saturday, 10 am – 2 pm; and Sunday, 11 am – 2 pm. We hope you can join us for this momentous occasion!

Historic Past—Bold Future 2040

In my last "Mayors Minute," I was asked about a plan that was done in 2020 entitled "Historic Past—Bold Future 2040." This plan took several months to complete and is a comprehensive plan for the City of Brenham, with a great deal of input from leaders and citizens in our community regarding how our city will look in 2040. Population projections are always challenging because of so many extenuating factors that can increase or decrease in numbers. Fortunately for Brenham, we have seen a substantial increase in our population over the last five years. Projections from four different sources in 2020 projected our population would be 18,624 in 2030 and 19,980 in 2040. In a recent article in The Banner Press, Texas-Demographics.com listed Brenham's population as 19,621, which we were not to reach until 2040. Those numbers are not surprising for everyone who has lived here for some time.

The top two priorities in the 2040 plan were our infrastructure (utility) and safety issues for the future. Number one was water, and I am pleased that the city council has already taken steps to secure an adequate supply of water for decades to come by issuing bonds to begin the drilling of several underground water wells at a depth that will produce the needed gallons of water along with the surface water from Lake Somerville for our projected growth in the future.

Along with the new wells, plans are being drawn for an extensive upgrade to our water treatment facility to maintain the quality of water we have enjoyed over the years. Another improvement is the planned improvement to our wastewater plant and the evaluation and replacement of several wastewater lift stations throughout the City, which will help prepare for our city's future growth.

Number two was safety. Our police and fire departments are always on the top of the list when it comes to budgeting and setting our top priorities for each year. Both departments have done an outstanding job, and I am pleased to announce that we have just opened bids on our new fire station, which is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2025. There were nine highly competitive bids, and we hope to award the contract in the next few weeks. A second fire station and the addition of new firefighters will be a true asset to our City in the coming years. In my next Mayor’s Minute in January, I will discuss more details of this plan for the future.

Thank you. I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas and remembers that "Jesus is the Reason for the Season."

November 2024

This past week, I’ve felt incredibly proud of our community as I’ve watched long lines of citizens waiting to cast their votes after leaving City Hall. This election has attracted a lot of attention, given the diversity of the candidates' platforms and their starkly different personalities. Current polls reflect a close race with no clear frontrunner, which tells me that we may not know the winner until a day or so after Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

Watching the networks compete to call states with only 20% of votes in will be both entertaining and sort of fun. I’ll probably tune into NBC to catch Steve Kornacki and his now-famous charts and graphs attempting to predict the outcome before polls close. It’s a refreshing change from the thousands of political ads we’ve been subjected to over recent months. Regardless of who wins, let’s hope we can stop the division among us and work together for the good of our nation.

I want to give a shout-out to the Brenham Independent School District, especially Kari Prihoda and her team, for leaving the Downtown streets of Brenham in excellent condition following the homecoming parade. Driving through downtown just an hour afterward, I was struck by how spotless it was—no litter, candy wrappers, or pom-pom pieces in sight. Outstanding job, and thanks to everyone involved in keeping our streets clean!

In another critical community matter, I urge our city and county residents to consider visiting the animal shelter and adopting a pet. The shelter is currently at full capacity and urgently needs to reduce the number of animals it cares for. The staff does an outstanding job with their available resources, but the demand is overwhelming. You may not be aware, but the animal shelter serves the entire county, not just within the city limits. The number of animals needing homes has grown significantly over the past year, so if you’ve been considering adding a pet to your family, now is the time! Thanks to the shelter's dedicated team, the animals are well cared for and vaccinated.

I’m also pleased to share an update on Kruse Family Park. It's been a long wait, but Texas Parks and Wildlife has approved Phase I of the park plan, which the Corps of Engineers initially delayed due to concerns around Woodward Creek. One of the highlights of this phase is a fishing and recreational pond, along with a walking trail—both promise to be popular additions to our community. The city is currently reviewing cost estimates and funding options for the project.

I want to congratulate our varsity and junior varsity football teams on a great season. With only one loss each, both teams have shown tremendous skill against some tough competition. The varsity team is playoff-bound, with matchups to be announced, while the junior varsity (where my grandson plays) will wrap up their season with one more game. Congratulations on an excellent season, and here’s to even more exciting games ahead – it’s been fun watching!

For all of November’s events, visit the City’s home page at www.cityofbrenham.org

I look forward to seeing you all there and continuing to celebrate our community together! As always, please feel free to contact me with questions at info@cityofbrenham.org.

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October 2024

As we welcome the crisp days of fall, I hope you’re starting to enjoy the change in weather and all the seasonal activities that come with it. Christmas will be here before we know it!

I’m excited to share some great news regarding Brenham’s economic and tourism standing. The 2024 Most Dynamic Micropolitans report highlights towns with populations between 10,000 and 50,000—and their resilience since the COVID-19 pandemic. Among over 500 communities analyzed, Brenham proudly ranks #18 on the list of the top 25. This report emphasizes the importance of tourism, manufacturing, and creating quality living spaces as key factors in economic recovery and growth.

To ensure long-term prosperity, it’s essential we leverage our local strengths while diversifying our economic base. This approach will help us lessen the risks associated with reliance on single industries and allow more opportunities for our community.

The study is conducted by Heartland Forward, a policy think tank that works as a resource for states and communities to advance economic success in the middle of the country.

So, congratulations to our community and the great people who live, work, and visit here.

Fire Department Announcement

We welcomed a new Assistant Fire Chief to Brenham, David Cella. With an impressive 18 years of fire service experience in New Jersey, Cella brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team.

Cella's extensive background and commitment to safety and community service will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our fire department's capabilities. Please join me in welcoming him to our Brenham community!

Fire station #2 continues to move forward. We look forward to seeing the progress and completion in 2025.

October Fun

National Night Out

On Tuesday, October 1, the Brenham Police Department held its annual National Night Out. It was great fun for neighborhoods to come together with block parties and spend time with our officers.

On a special note, I’d like to thank our PD for their continued recruiting efforts as we continue to search for officers to join the team. Our department is one-of-a-kind and takes great pride in our community and the job they are called to do. If you know anyone looking for a career in law enforcement, encourage them to contact Brenham PD.

Texas Arts and Music Festival

This celebration, which is free to the public and runs from October 18 – 20 in Downtown Brenham, promises an unforgettable weekend packed with artistic inspiration and musical delight.

Festival highlights include the Juried Art Show, Art Village, mural installations, live art demonstrations, and live music – including one by the Brenham Children’s Chorus. Visit texasartsandmusicfestival.com for more information and to plan your visit.

Mask-erade on Main

In celebration of our community spirit, I’m thrilled to announce the upcoming Mask-erade on Main, a family-friendly event scheduled for Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. This afternoon is filled with fun for all ages—trick-or-treating at participating downtown businesses, delicious food from local food trucks, and music to keep the spirit alive.

Join us as several city departments, including the Brenham Fire Department and Animal Services, participate in this festive event. It’s a fantastic opportunity to interact with our local heroes.

This event is free and requires no pre-registration. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just visiting, the Mask-erade on Main is a wonderful chance to enjoy the charm of downtown Brenham.

A special thank you to Ace Hardware for sponsoring this year’s event! The city’s website has all the information, and you can stay updated by checking the Main Street and Downtown Brenham Facebook pages.

For all of October’s events, visit the City’s home page

I look forward to seeing you all there and continuing to celebrate our community together! As always, please feel free to contact me with questions at info@cityofbrenham.org.

September 2024

As we move into September, we wish all the students and teachers a wonderful school year. Our city is bustling with exciting events, community initiatives, and new business openings that reflect the vibrant spirit of Brenham. Here’s a look at what’s happening this month:

21st Annual Scarecrow Extravaganza: Our much loved Scarecrow Extravaganza is back! Registration is now open, and we encourage everyone to participate. Scarecrows will start appearing Downtown on September 27th, bringing creativity and charm to our streets.

First Friday Farmer & Artisan Market: On Friday, September 6th, join us for the First Friday Farmer & Artisan Market from 4 PM to 7 PM. Enjoy live music by Jake Honeycutt, and don’t miss the free microchipping service Brenham Animal Services provides. It’s a perfect evening to support local vendors and enjoy the community atmosphere.

Mask-erade on Main: Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 26th, from 2 PM to 5 PM, for Mask-erade on Main. Brenham Ace Hardware generously sponsors this family-friendly trick-or-treating experience through Downtown.

Brenham Animal Services had an amazing turnout at last month's MEGA adoption event. Staff is to be commended for their hard work in making our animal shelter one of the best!  September brings several important events and programs:

• September 3rd: Read to Dogs at the Library (4:15 PM – 5 PM) & Volunteer Orientation (5:15 PM – 6 PM)
• September 6th: Brenham Farmers Market (4 PM – 7 PM) with free adoptions and microchips for personal pets
• September 7th: Clear The Shelters (12 PM – 5 PM) featuring free pet adoptions, microchipping, Kona Ice snow cones, a bounce house, and Touch-A-Truck with our Police and Fire Departments
• September 11th & 25th: PetSmart Adoptions (2 PM – 5 PM)
• September 14th: Washington County Fair Parade
• September 28th: Buff City Soap Adoption, Microchip & Donation Event (12 PM – 5 PM)

In addition to the day-to-day operations and these special events, the staff is proud to introduce two new programs starting on October 1, 2024:

• Doggy Day Out Program (DDO): This initiative allows dogs to enjoy a few hours outside the shelter, helping them de-stress and gain life skills while interacting with the community. Adults 18 and older can participate, with families welcome to join.
• Spay/Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP): This program offers low-cost spay/neuter services exclusively for City of Brenham residents. Applications are available at Brenham Animal Services, and the program includes free microchipping in conjunction with the application.

I hope the fall months will bring us some much needed relief from the heat and families will be able to enjoy some of the activities around town. Don’t miss the start of Brenham Cub football season which starts this weekend with the varsity traveling to Huntsville and Junior Varsity hosting their home opener at Cub Stadium, also against Huntsville (looking forward to this game with my grandson and his teammates). It should be a great season for all the Cub teams!

As always, I’d like to invite you to submit your questions for me to info@cityofbrenham.org or mailed to:

City Hall
Questions for Mayor Kenjura
200 W. Vulcan St.
Brenham, TX 77833

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August 2024

July in Brenham has been a whirlwind of activity. Summer brings a flurry of tourism and special events, including Hot Nights Cool Tunes, First Friday Market Day, and our Fourth of July celebrations. This month also presented some challenges from Hurricane Beryl but we were blessed to only receive mild to moderate damage to our city and county.

The summer months also mark our annual budget planning. The budget for the fiscal year starting October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025, was meticulously reviewed during our work session on July 22nd. We are pleased to present a balanced budget, thanks to a thorough assessment of various economic factors, including the presidential election outlook, unemployment rates, interest rates, inflation, and population growth.

The presidential race remains competitive, while the unemployment rate has held steady at 3.4%. The Federal Reserve's potential interest rate cuts could impact economic growth, particularly in home and business construction. Inflation has eased and is projected to stay around 3 to 3.5% in the coming year. Texas continues to be a business-friendly state with a robust workforce. Our city, located in the Texas Triangle (Dallas, Houston, Austin), benefits from the growth of the retail, industrial, educational, and healthcare sectors, which aligns with the overall population increase.

Our proposed General Fund 101 budget for the upcoming year is $24,415,757 in revenue/other financing services and $24,415,757 in expenditures, resulting in a balanced budget. Sales tax remains our top revenue source at $8,133,696, followed by property tax at $6,276,310. On the expenditure side, public safety is our top priority, with the police department budgeted at $6,276,178 and the fire department at $3,567,827. Notable expenditures also include:

• Parks: $1,589,910
• Streets: $1,412,379
• Aquatics: $1,122,335
• Animal Shelter: $775,823
• Library: $614,247

The budget increase is primarily due to adding three new firefighters to support the upcoming Fire Station #2, which will open in 2025. Despite the expanded services, the Budget Team has done an exceptional job maintaining a balanced budget.

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our electric department for their tireless efforts during Hurricane Beryl. Despite working through challenging conditions, including extended hours and difficult weather, they restored power to all affected homes and businesses the same night. Their dedication, despite the exhaustion and discomfort, exemplifies the spirit of our community.

As we reflect on July's challenges and successes, we remain grateful for the strength and resilience of our community and our dedicated city staff. We are well-prepared to handle future crises and continue building a thriving Brenham.

Want to ask Mayor Kenjura a question? Use our online form and be sure to check "To ask the Mayor a question".

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July 2024

Happy Summer, Brenham! Here we are, already in July, seeing the best of our summer heat has arrived. This is one of our most fun months of the year. I encourage you to check the local listings and mark your calendars for some of these events. Brenham's highly anticipated summer concert series, Hot Nights, Cool Tunes, is set to return for its 20th anniversary celebration. This iconic event is a Brenham “tradition” and offers a lineup of musical performances and community festivities. It features four consecutive Saturdays of live entertainment, starting on July 6th and ending on July 27th. Each weekend showcases a different band, offering a diverse range of musical styles: Suede, The Pictures Band, Brown Sugar Band, and The Spicolis. All concerts are held on Saturday evenings at the Courthouse Square in Downtown Brenham and begin at 7:00 PM. This is free family-friendly fun and open to everyone. 

In addition, we’ve got the summer reading program for kids at the library, the Brenham Farmer and Artisan Market, the Grown Up Cup, and so many activities at the Blue Bell Aquatic Center.  

Post Office Building Update

Last Friday, Judge John Durrenberger, Carolyn Miller, Richard O'Malley, and I met with the owner of the post office building to discuss our need for a new facility. It was fortunate to finally have a contact person after years of trying to identify the owner of our current facility. Many individuals and several political figures have been unable to secure this information over the past 25 years or more. So, with some effort and a bit of luck, we managed to have this meeting and a walk-through of our local post office.

We expressed to the owner that the current facility and its location can no longer serve the citizens of Brenham and Washington County due to the significant growth over the past 60 years. The previous post office was located at the corner of Main and Market St., which is now the Brenham Heritage Museum. The current location, built in 1964, was built when the population of Brenham and Washington County was 8,000 and 19,000, respectively. Today, these numbers have grown to 19,000 and 39,000. The current facility is outdated and inadequate for our needs.

Unfortunately, working with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is a real challenge and one that will not be easily resolved. The USPS is very guarded about providing any information that would help secure a new facility. Even using the Freedom of Information Act has not been successful in obtaining the necessary information. A recent court case and appeal were denied, with the ruling stating, "providing any information was inconsistent with good business practices because it places us (United States Postal Service) at a disadvantage in our leasing activities to our potential detriment." As you can see from this statement, obtaining any information about leases or a potential new facility will be very difficult. However, this does not mean it is impossible. We have been given some additional contact information for individuals and political figures that will hopefully assist us in our quest for a new post office. 

I wish all of you a safe and fun summer! As always, feel free to send questions to me at info@cityofbrenham.org. 

Mayor Kenjura

June 2024

Last week, the city council, along with the city manager, department heads, and staff, dedicated an entire day to reviewing Brenham's 5-year capital plan. This comprehensive review follows numerous meetings and discussions aimed at equipping each department with a clear understanding of the city's needs over the next half-decade. Our goal is to ensure that Brenham continues to deliver essential services to its citizens and do so effectively.

The plan includes 13 major departments, which collectively have requested over $53 million in funding for various projects and initiatives. Here's a summarized breakdown:

• Airport: $3.3 million (mostly covered by grants from FAA and Tx Dot)
• Aquatics (Blue Bell pool): $2 million
• Animal Services: $164,000
• Developmental Services: $36,000 (for licenses and permits)
• Drainage: $4.3 million (largely covered by drainage fees from utility bills)
• Fire: $3.9 million
• Information Technology (IT): $350,000
• Main Street: $18,000
• Maintenance: $3.2 million (potentially for remodeling, HVAC, generators)
• Parks and Recreation: $10.9 million (mostly funded by sales tax from BCDC)
• Police: $3.2 million
• Streets: $20.9 million
• Tourism: $250,000

Our total city budget for 2024 stands at $23 million, with approximately $15 million allocated to personnel costs. This leaves roughly $8 million for operations, maintenance, and capital requests. Clearly, there's a shortfall in funding, necessitating careful prioritization to ensure essential services remain sustainable within these budgetary constraints.

Public safety, specifically Police and Fire departments, takes precedence. The City Council is steadfast in ensuring these departments receive adequate funding to safeguard our community against crime and fire hazards.

For Police, a significant expenditure includes the replacement of body and dash cameras, with a matching grant helping to offset costs. Additionally, 28 vehicles used by officers require replacement, along with specialized equipment for each vehicle.

In the Fire Department, priority lies in replacing two fire trucks, Ladder I and Ladder II, for $3.5 million. Unfortunately, due to supply chain delays, it will take four years to procure these vehicles. Plans are underway for the construction of Fire Station #2 in 2025, estimated at $6 million.

One of our most important functions and responsibilities as mayor and council member is ensuring the city operates within its budget and provides the services you deserve as citizens. We're fortunate to have a seasoned city manager, Carolyn Miller, and dedicated city staff highly trained at managing budgetary concerns.

Together, we strive to make Brenham the best place to live and work! And on a side note, let's extend our gratitude to the street department for their diligent work in clearing debris and limbs after recent storms. A simple thumbs up and a heartfelt "thank you" go a long way in recognizing their efforts.

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May 2024

Welcome to May! By the time you read this, the annual Maifest celebration will be taking place at Fireman's Park for 134 years, dating back to its beginning in 1881. The event has taken place each year except for several years during World War I and II. The Brenham Maifest is a culmination of its Board. Royalty families, supporters, and friends who work diligently and tirelessly each year to create a festival that highlights and celebrates the heritage of our community. Once again, because of being more involved this year (my granddaughter Caroline Kenjura is Junior Queen), I am amazed at the unbelievable amount of hours spent on this event to ensure the Brenham Maifest remains "The Oldest Festival in the State of Texas". Preparation for the festival begins in January and continues through the final day of the event.

The two coronations for the Senior and Junior Courts highlight the youth of our community. The entertainment by various bands continues at the festival site along with food booths, crafts, and carnival rides. If you are new to Brenham or have yet to experience Maifest, I encourage you to attend the festivities. Again, thanks to all the supporters and volunteers who keep this tradition moving forward – and maybe some of the young participants this year will be able to attend the 200th Maifest Celebration in the year 2090.

Another celebration during May, that is near and dear to all of us, is Mother’s Day. It is a day that is all about the woman who raised you and shaped who you are as a person. From the packed lunches with napkin notes to the bandages applied after falling off your bike, to being the first to cry at your graduation - your mom was there for it all. It's important to thank her or remember her for all the love and work she put in through the years to make you a better person. Thank you, Mom!

The 50-year anniversaries of the Brenham State Supported Living Center (May 10) and Memorial Oaks Chapel (May 22) mark significant milestones worth celebrating. It's wonderful to see these institutions serving the community for half a century.

Events like the Boys and Girls Club Gala and Fundraiser (May 16) provide vital support for youth programs, while high school graduation ceremonies signify a new chapter for many young adults in Brenham and Burton.

The DPS meal fundraiser supporting the victims of the DPS tragedy demonstrates the community's compassion and solidarity during difficult times. It is Wednesday, May 15 from 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM at Batter Box on FM 389. Tickets can be purchased from various businesses in town. Please help support this worthwhile cause.

Last, it is hard to believe this weekend marks one year since I was elected Mayor of this great community. The City of Brenham is blessed to have outstanding employees and administrators who genuinely care for this place we all call home. I, along with the City Council strive to do our very best to keep Brenham-Brenham.

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April 2024

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter weekend and welcome to April! There is a great deal happening in our community and so much to talk about. Today I want to focus on two topics that were brought up at the Chamber of Commerce State of the Community – Crime and the Brenham Post Office.

Crime

The question asked was about the crime rate in our city and county and what type of crime was the most prevalent. After consulting with our Interim Police Chief Powell and Washington County Sheriff Hanak, it was determined that theft and burglaries are at the top of the list for the city while assault due to drugs and alcohol and ID theft/scams are at the top of the list for the county. For the City of Brenham, stats for 2023 regarding thefts, burglaries, and auto thefts are:

Some may perceive theft and burglaries as the same, but there is a clear difference in the offense. Theft involves the unlawful acquisition of property belonging to another through dishonest means while burglary refers to the unauthorized entry into a building with the intent to commit theft, cause bodily harm, or inflict unlawful damage. According to our PD, most thefts are crimes of convenience for anything valuable, and more cars than homes are targeted. Firearms top the list of items stolen. Law enforcement recommends that you make sure your homes and vehicles are locked, along with not leaving your garage doors open. Brenham PD, according to state and national statistics, has an above-average percentage of solved cases and individuals brought to justice – and for that, we should be very proud.

Brenham Post Office

During the Chamber forum, I announced the formation of a committee led by Judge Durrenberger and myself, tasked with evaluating our current post office facility. If you remember, the post office used to be located on Market Street, now the site of the museum, before relocating to its current location in 1964. Since becoming mayor, I've received numerous inquiries regarding potential improvements to both the service and the facility. One common concern is the lack of a convenient drop box for mailing letters without the need for parking and entering the building.

Several meetings are planned in the coming weeks to gather input and insights that will guide us in achieving our goal of enhancing services and facilities. Again, I would ask that anyone who has contact with an elected official or their staff to please get in touch with me (akenjura@cityofbrenham.org) or Judge Durrenberger (countyjudge@wacounty.com) as politics will play an important part in this endeavor.

What do I need from you? I need your feedback. Over the next several weeks we will be gathering your experiences, complaints, suggestions, and compliments about the Brenham Post Office. Simply share your views at cityofbrenham.online/survey. One of my duties as your mayor is to work with our state and federal counterparts to solve problems facing our city. Our postal service was written into the U.S. Constitution by the Founding Fathers and is still an important part of our lives to this very day.  With your help, we can put a positive plan in place and work on ways to help the U.S. Postal Service improve this situation for everyone.

TxDOT Update

Phase I of the sidewalk project on Park St. and S. Austin St. is almost complete and Phase II from Jack-in-the-Box to Tom Green St. will begin in early 2025.

The proposed medians along S. Day St. from Stone St. to the loop have been put on hold until a different plan can be determined. The engineers on the project recognize the traffic issue is complex and are trying to develop a plan for the future.

Upcoming Community Events

• Main Street Brenham 25^th Anniversary celebration dinner will be held on Thursday, April 11th at the Barnhill Center.
• The Chamber is having its 4^th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament at Brenham Country Club on Monday, April 22, 2024. If you have not yet registered to play, get in touch with the Chamber for more information (979) 836-3695.

As always, feel free to send questions to me at info@cityofbrenham.org, and thank you for helping us keep Brenham, Brenham.

Mayor Kenjura

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March 2024

Election

I want to urge those who haven't voted early to take a moment and participate in the upcoming election on Tuesday, March 5th. The voting locations will be open from 7 am to 7 pm. Many thanks to the county and Carol Jackson, the elections administrator, for ensuring ample parking spaces around the courthouse during the early voting period and for all involved in the election administration process. This election has generated significant interest, evident from the numerous political signs across the city and county. We have several local contested races, including Sheriff, District Attorney, County Commissioner, Constable, and the election of a new state representative for District 12. These candidates have invested considerable time and resources in their campaigns, and your vote can make a difference.

Please take a few minutes to cast your vote on Tuesday.

Upcoming Events

It's hard to believe that spring seems to have arrived early, with plants budding and grass turning green. The city and Main Street will host the annual Spring Eggs Art Walk and contest in downtown Brenham. This event showcases the artistic skills of various clubs and organizations.

The city and county Collection Days at the collection station on East Alamo St. will take place on March 7-9 for the city and March 14-16 for the county. Make use of this free service to keep Brenham and Washington County beautiful.

Tourism along with a bumper crop of bluebonnets (thanks to abundant rainfall) should be in record numbers this year. The Antique Horse Carousel, the oldest in Texas (and only one of five classic wood horse carousels that still exist in Texas), will be open from March 1 to Oct 31 on Saturdays and Sundays.

City Projects

The sidewalk project that is underway is moving along at a nice pace and has sharpened everyone's driving skills with all the orange cones in place along the work area. Phase One on Park Street is listed as the area from Burger King and Kenjura Tile to Vulcan Street next to City Hall. Phase Two will be Day Street from Tom Green Street extending to Jack-in- the-Box. And, Phase Three will connect the two areas. Along with this project, the Street Department will begin a paving project that will include the resurfacing and construction of approximately 10-12 streets throughout the city. So please be patient and reduce your speed when driving these areas around town in the next few months.

Progress continues on the new fire station #2. The council will finalize decisions after a field trip to fire stations in New Braunfels and San Marcos on Monday.

Public Invited to Chief Parker Retirement Party

On March 7th, the public is invited to a retirement reception for Chief Ron Parker, retiring as Police Chief for the City of Brenham. We extend our sincere wishes for a well-deserved and fulfilling retirement. The reception will be at 4:00 pm at Police Headquarters, 1800 Longwood Dr.

Take care and drive safe with all the activity in the months ahead.

Thank you for your questions, and again I can be reached at info@cityofbrenham.org or mailed to:

City Hall
Questions for Mayor Kenjura
200 W. Vulcan St
Brenham, TX 77833

February 2024

I would like to express sincere gratitude to our Utility Department and its dedicated crews who were on standby during the recent severe weather conditions. Special thanks also go to the Fire Department and first responders for their swift responses during the bitter cold and the recent community flooding.

Impact Fees

There has been considerable media coverage since the beginning of the year regarding "impact fees," which will be presented to the city council in the coming weeks. Discussions on these fees were initially brought to the council in May 2023, and since then, several meetings with the public and developers have taken place to enhance understanding. A workshop and discussion on this topic were presented at our recent council meeting, followed by another meeting and a special presentation to developers and contractors for further insights and input.

The primary purpose of these fees is to shift some of the financial responsibility for new development from the city and its taxpayers to the developers. While this approach is common in nearby cities, Brenham is one of the last to implement such fees. As with any new initiative, there are pros and cons, and we welcome your opinions and input.

TxDOT

Recently, a meeting was held by TxDOT concerning the Hwy 290/36 interchange, where citizens voiced their concerns. Construction is set to begin in 2027, with completion expected in 2029-2030. Concerns have also been raised about the proposed raised median along S Day from Stone St to Hwy 290. A letter from my office to TxDOT has been sent expressing the concerns of businesses along this route, indicating that it would be very problematic for them and the public if this project is allowed to happen.

City Manager Position

On January 29th, the city council spent a substantial amount of time reviewing applications for the city manager position. We received a total of 17 applications that met the required qualifications.

Resident Q&A

#1 Retention Pond Maintenance

I received a question regarding the maintenance responsibility for detention ponds that are in many areas of our city limits. As we know, some of these can become an eyesore with overgrown vegetation. The property developer or homeowners’ association, not the city, is responsible for maintenance. The newest detention pond near the Academy store will be maintained by the developer (Market Square Development).

#2 Sidewalk Improvements

Regarding sidewalk improvements on Park St, this project is funded by TxDOT, and no city funds are being utilized. The project will extend from the intersection of Blue Bell Rd. and Park St. (Burger King) along S. Austin and S. Day St. to the intersection of Hwy 290/36 (Jack in the Box). Completion for this is scheduled for the end of 2024.

Thank you for your questions, and again, I can be reached at info@cityofbrenham.org or receive mail at:

City Hall
Questions for Mayor Kenjura
200 W. Vulcan St
Brenham, TX 77833

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January 2024

Here's wishing everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year. I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas with family and friends and that Santa was good to those of you who were nice and not naughty. It's incredible how fast time goes by, especially this time of year. Personally, it seems like it was just yesterday that I was sworn in as mayor and here we are ready to start a new year.

The growth experienced over the past couple of years has been incredible and it has taken a team effort on behalf of all the city employees and staff to manage this growth. Permits in the residential and commercial sectors have begun to slow down, primarily because of the multiple interest hikes during the past year by the Feds. The good news is that in 2024 we should hopefully see several cuts in the prime interest rates. This “slowdown” is both good and bad in that it gives us a chance to catch up on the challenges to our infrastructure that have stressed all departments within the city, especially those dealing with water, electricity, and streets. Also, a little slowdown will help to maintain our identity in keeping Brenham-Brenham.

We understand the crucial role that growth plays in the development of any city, so as we anticipate ongoing expansion, this growth must occur in a manner that aligns with our available resources, avoiding undue financial strain on taxpayers. Over the past year, water has been a major focus, as a lifeblood of a community, leading to extensive planning and research to ensure a sustainable water supply for many years to come. Unfortunately, the estimated cost of the associated project stands at approximately $65 million. To meet this financial demand, there will be a need for incremental rate increases over a designated period for both commercial and residential water users. I will continue to give you updates as decisions are made with the City Council.

Another priority for 2024 is the continued planning, building, and staffing of Brenham's second fire station. This is in response to our rapid growth and is a necessity for the good of our community.

Next, as I’m sure you have heard, our City Manager, Carolyn Miller, has announced her retirement effective April 1, 2024. It will be difficult to replace Carolyn who has been with the city for 19 years and the last two and a half years as City Manager. It has been a true pleasure working with her and we all wish her the very best in her retirement. The process and recruitment of securing a new City Manager has begun. City Council decided not to contract with a search firm but to do an in-house search, led by Human Resource Director Susan Nienstedt and her staff. The proposed timeline is to begin conducting in-person interviews by the end of February and select a City Manager by the end of March 2024.

Last, but not least, I would like to thank everyone who has personally told me they enjoy reading this monthly “Mayor’s Minute”. I have enjoyed writing it even though sometimes it seems the monthly submission comes along rather fast. My goal and intention is for the article to be informative and discuss what might be on the citizens' minds. For 2024, I’d like to invite you to submit your questions for me and I’ll address them, each month, throughout the year. Questions may be submitted to info@cityofbrenham.org or mailed to:

City Hall
Questions for Mayor Kenjura
200 W. Vulcan St
Brenham, TX 77833

Thank you and again Happy New Year!

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December 2023

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the Mayor's office and without a doubt "it's the most wonderful time of the year". There is really nothing quite like the holidays! Our family enjoyed Thanksgiving and celebrated with 31 members of the family ranging in age from four to 92. It was very special having four generations sit at one table, and the food was absolutely delicious, as usual.

On the business side of the ledger this month, the Texas Department of Transportation's meeting concerning the installation of raised medians on South Day Street was well attended. I encourage everyone to read more about it at txdot.gov - bs-36j raised medians. Opinions on the matter may be shared with TxDOT at BRY_PublicComment@txdot.gov or (979) 778-9231. I believe it is crucial to gather more input from the residents before initiating this project. A significant concern of mine is traffic leaving Sonic and HEB may be unable to make a left turn onto Day Street. Instead, drivers might either proceed onto the westbound feeder road, circling back to Highway 36 for a left turn at that intersection, or, as an alternative, exit the feeder road after the LaRoche Dealership and travel via Lubbock or Stone Street back to Day Street. This would inevitably result in unwarranted traffic through a residential area.

Another noteworthy meeting is scheduled for Thursday, December 7, addressing impact fees. Moderated by Strand Engineers, the meeting aims to explain the various types of fees associated with any new development within the city limits. This meeting is set to take place in the community room at the Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library, at 5:30 pm.

Downtown has taken on a festive atmosphere with all the holiday decorations being displayed by the many retail establishments. Thanks to all the merchants who have participated and made downtown a special destination to visit and shop. It is a great place to bring your friends and family who are here for the holidays.

Brenham is gearing up for a series of festive activities in the upcoming weeks leading up to Christmas. Among the highlights is the much-anticipated annual Christmas Stroll and Lighted Parade held Saturday, December 2, at 5:30 pm in downtown Brenham. This event has steadily grown, drawing sizable crowds eager to witness Santa as the main attraction. Be sure to visit https://jingle.cityofbrenham.org/ for a full listing of holiday events. There is a lot of activity going on in our town this time of the year leading up to Christmas and that special time being with friends and family to celebrate "Jesus - the reason for the season".

From me and the entire city staff, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

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November 2023

In this edition of the Mayor’s Minute, I wish to shine a spotlight on several noteworthy matters that warrant our attention. 

First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the myriad of organizations and individuals who played integral roles in the various Halloween festivities in our city last week. These events, thoughtfully designed with our youth in mind and emphasizing safety and fun, are a tremendous asset to our community. I would also like to extend my sincere gratitude to Main Street for their dedication in orchestrating a different location for the First Fridays Farmer and Artisan Market, allowing the final days of early voting to proceed at its customary location in the courthouse annex on Park Street. 

Following our recent council meeting, we held a retirement reception in honor of Assistant Fire Chief Brian Scheffer, whose remarkable 26 years of service to our community deserve our recognition and gratitude. In Brian’s speech, he expressed his appreciation to the City of Brenham and the fire department for entrusting him with this significant role. Brian eagerly anticipates his new role with Texas A&M TEEX and Region 7, which encompasses the Brenham area. Furthermore, Brian has graciously agreed to continue serving on a part-time basis, assisting with essential reporting and providing his leadership until an interim or permanent fire chief can be appointed. Thank you, Brian, for your service and leadership to our fire department over the years. 

Thirdly, I wish to draw your attention to an upcoming public hearing scheduled for November 16, from 4:30 to 6:30 PM at the Blinn College Student Center. The purpose of this hearing is to provide information and gather feedback from our community regarding a proposal to enhance South Day Street. This TxDOT-led project seeks to raise the median and incorporate dedicated left-turn lanes along South Day Street from W. Stone Street to US 290. Representatives from TxDOT will be present to address any questions the public may have regarding this initiative. Should you have specific questions before the meeting, please feel free to reach out to Sydney Fox, TxDOT Bryan District, at 979-778-9231. 

Fourthly, I want to emphasize the importance of election day, which falls on November 7. While there are no city or county elections at this time, there are 14 proposed amendments to the state constitution that warrant our attention and your invaluable right to vote so I encourage everyone to put this on your calendars.  

Next, I’d like to take this time to express my deep gratitude to the brave men and women who have served in our nation’s armed forces. Veteran’s Day is a special opportunity to recognize the sacrifices and dedication of those who have selflessly defended our freedom. On November 11, let us not only remember the veterans of the past but also support those who continue to serve. They have put their lives on the line so that we can enjoy the liberties and opportunities we often take for granted.  

Last but certainly not least, we must recognize the significance of the upcoming decision facing the Brenham Independent School District Board regarding the selection of the next Superintendent. This decision will undeniably stand as one of the most pivotal choices the Board will make in the coming years. The input from the public in recent weeks has underscored the necessity of appointing an individual with an unwavering commitment to Brenham, someone who will serve in this position for the long haul, rather than using it as a stepping stone. There is no facet more critical to our community than education. Without a strong educational foundation within our district, prospective businesses and industries may choose to bypass Brenham and Washington County in the future. Now is the time for unity, not division or blame; we are all in this together – bound by our shared commitment to the future of Brenham and Washington County. It is this determination that truly defines our community as a great place to call home.

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October 2023

This month’s topic is of the utmost importance - water. It is clear the City of Brenham is facing a critical need for water supply and treatment facility upgrades. As you may know, the City Council has approved a contract with Strand Associates to address the city’s water needs and improve the existing water treatment facility on South Austin Street.

The City has owned and operated water treatment facilities at the current location since 1894. The City moved to a surface water treatment system in 1972 with an 18-inch line to Lake Somerville. A 24-inch line was added in 1995 and the 18-inch line was abandoned. The last major plant expansion was in 1987 when treated water capacity was increased from 3.5 MGD (million gallons a day) to 6.984 MGD. Thus, the current water plant has served the community for over 35 years, and as with anything in service for that many years, it’s in need of improvements and replacements.

This has been a difficult decision for past city councils because of the costs associated with a project of this magnitude. But, the time has come to “bite the bullet,” as the saying goes. Whether we want it or not, growth happens. We have a responsibility to ourselves and future generations to supply the city with enough water and to ensure the quality of this water meets or exceeds all standards as specified by the State of Texas and our own high standards.

To accomplish this, we have had several proposals to secure more water for the city. After much discussion, the chosen solution is to drill deep water wells in strata that are at a depth of 500 – 1,000 ft. to secure a long-term water supply. The other choice was to construct a second line to Lake Somerville but the costs to lay the line and to construct a new lake intake station were deemed too expensive; therefore, the decision to proceed with the deep water wells was made. One concern with drilling within the city limits was that it would affect citizens with existing wells outside the city limits but because of the depth of the wells, this will not affect the existing wells of our county residents.

Of course, all of this comes with a price tag that is expensive and necessary. A city cannot run out of water! As a new mayor, the last thing I want is to raise water rates for residential and commercial customers, but the city has no other choice. Our utility department is looking at ways to help offset the proposed increases but with a projected expenditure of over $36 million.

We face many challenges when we talk about water but I am confident we have all the right people and components in place to be successful. The City’s water treatment plan is fortunate to have seven talented and dedicated personnel who are committed to ensuring a reliable and safe water supply for the community. Their hard work and expertise are vital to the success of the city’s water initiatives. We have a city council willing to make tough decisions to address the water challenges. And, the city, as a whole, benefits from an exceptional staff that is fully engaged and committed to finding solutions to many day-to-day challenges. This “all hands on deck” approach underscores the city’s determination to secure a bright future for Brenham.

Thank you for the opportunity to explain our water challenges and would like to personally invite you to attend our council meetings as we will be discussing this issue in the coming months.

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September 2023

I’d like to personally take a minute to thank all of you for taking time out of your busy schedules to attend the Town Hall on August 10 to discuss the Brenham Family Park Small Area Plan. The meeting was very well attended and was interactive and informative. Your voice is integral in shaping so many things in our community and your engagement in this viable and sustainable plan is greatly appreciated. This project hasn’t come without its list of challenges. Yet, City staff has worked hard to work through things like land acquisitions and permitting with the end goal of marrying potential uses with Brenham's unique character and capturing its small-town allure while enhancing our entire community. That’s not an easy task!

This parkland was donated by Ed and Evelyn Kruse in December 2013 and development will likely begin in the summer of 2024. Our Small Area Plan, while it includes the land surrounding the park, firmly excludes any potential for commercial or residential development within the park itself. This commitment underscores our dedication to maintaining its essence as a passive family park.

Based on a community-wide survey and from participants of the Town Hall, what we’ve heard thus far from residents for what is most desired is – quality/affordable housing options (500 townhomes, 800 apartments, and approximately 500 single-family homes), the possibility of a new school, larger lots near the park, coordinated development, walkability, and stormwater management. Proposed elements of the first phase of the Brenham Family Park development include a one-mile, 10-feet wide multi-use concrete trail, recreational lakes stocked with fish for families of the community to enjoy, wildflower viewing areas, restrooms, parking, security lighting, road extension, a pedestrian bridge, utility infrastructure, and park and program signage. Public investment typically is followed by Private investment.  Thus, the Brenham Family Park may become a catalyst for future growth and development inquiries.

Your contribution was instrumental in formulating a roadmap that aligns with the vision for our community. Your engagement was critical and appreciated as we strive to keep Brenham – Brenham!

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August 2023

Introduction video featuring Mayor Atwood Kenjura discussing topics important to you and the community. Launching September 2023, the first Monday of the month will feature a new video from Brenham's Mayor, Atwood Kenjura.

The Mayor’s Minute

A New Dawn: Embracing Change as Your New Mayor

Hello Brenham!

I am humbled and honored to address you today as the newly elected mayor of our wonderful community. As I step into this role, I bring with me a deep sense of responsibility and a strong commitment to serving each one of you.

Change is often met with mixed emotions. Some may feel apprehensive, while others embrace it with open arms. First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude to all the previous administrations that have worked tirelessly to lay the foundation for our city's success. Their dedication and efforts have brought us to this point, and I vow to build upon their achievements while addressing the challenges that lie ahead.

One of my top priorities is to promote transparency and foster an open dialogue with the community. I firmly believe that progress can only be achieved when leaders actively listen to the concerns and aspirations of their constituents. I will be accessible and approachable, encouraging your feedback and actively seeking your input on key decisions that affect Brenham. I want to emphasize the importance of community engagement and civic participation. Our city is only as strong as its residents, and it is through active involvement that we can shape the future we envision. I encourage every one of you to get involved, whether it's volunteering, joining boards and committees, or participating in local events. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant community that we can all be proud of. The Mayor’s Minute will be written once a month and available in The Banner Press and on the City of Brenham’s Facebook page. I will also be launching Mondays with Mayor Kenjura where you can submit questions and on the first Monday of each month, I’ll be on Facebook to answer them. 

I am excited to embark on this journey. Change is not always easy, but with your support, we can overcome any obstacles that come our way. Let us embrace this new dawn and work together to create a city that thrives on our strong heritage and small-town feel, and where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and flourish.

Thank you for entrusting me with this responsibility. I am ready to serve you with dedication, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to the well-being of our community.