Brenham, the county seat of Washington County, the Birthplace of Texas, is proud of it’s heritage and history. The City was incorporated in 1858 and is always looking forward to its future. The City is proud of the role it plays as a leader in both the county and the region.
Brenham is located 70 miles northwest of Houston, 80 miles southeast of Austin and 35 miles south of College Station. It has a population of over 16,000 with a daytime population of over 42,000 due to local workforce, tourists and college students. According to the average daily count, over 40,000 vehicles travel through the city limits on US 290.
The quality of life in Brenham tops the list of why citizens stay here. It is a great place to live, work and raise a family. Brenham is proud of its historic downtown, beautiful parks and first class sports facilities. The city is home to the first public school district and first community college in Texas. Brenham ISD provides a strong educational foundation and works in partnership with Blinn College to prepare area youth for continued educational pursuits or workforce placement. The City partners with other governmental entities as well as the business community to ensure the citizens are provided with the services they need to succeed.
Brenham is one of a handful of municipalities that own and operate all utilities, including electric and gas, within the city limits. The Brenham Municipal Airport was dedicated in 1949 and now includes a 6,000 foot runway. The City has over 200 acres of parkland, including an aquatics center and sports complex, all of which average over 100,000 visitors a year. Tourism is a major industry for Brenham, with over 125,000 visitors coming to the area annually. The new police chief will find in Brenham a diverse and progressive hometown with the challenges that a thriving and growing community brings.
THE CITY ORGANIZATION
The City of Brenham operates under a Home Rule Charter in a Council-City Manager form of government. The Council consists of a Mayor and six council members, four of whom are elected from wards, and three, including the Mayor, who are elected at large. The Council sets the policy for the operation of the government, and the City Manager, who is appointed by Council, administers those policies. The City Manager is responsible for the appointment and supervision of all department heads.