Austin County Judge Tim Lapham addressed the Sealy Chamber’s “Lunch & Learn” on June 7, 2023, at the Sealy Knights of Columbus Hall presenting an insightful “state of the county” discourse that highlighted progress, addressed challenges, and hinted at the changes ahead.

Judge Lapham started by recalling his previous speech from 2017, reflecting that Austin county, with its diverse mix of quiet country roads and busy interstates, remains a dynamic place to live. Notably, he acknowledged the growth and development in the southern part of the county and the arrival of new manufacturing.

He celebrated local successes, including the regular patronage of the Prasek’s facility and the projected revamping of Tony’s, a popular local establishment. 

Lapham touched on the area’s resilience in the face of adversity, including weathering the COVID-19 pandemic and winter storms.  He warned the community about the need to prepare for growth and change. Increasing developments, including expanding residential areas and infrastructural updates like the completion of the Interstate 10, mean more people are coming to Austin County from all over the country. He cited the local school’s demographic research predicting an influx of children, leading to the need for additional school facilities.

Lapham also addressed the rumors about the upcoming water park, stating that no permits have been filed yet. He candidly shared that while many developers propose ideas, only a fraction follow through.

Highlighting the local sense of pride and community, Judge Lapham mentioned the San Felipe Museum, the new Justice Center, and the recently built EMS station in Sealy. These developments, he argued, are attracting more professionals to the area and providing a more effective service to residents.

In conclusion, Judge Lapham offered a candid, entertaining, and thoughtful look at the “state of the county”. His speech mixed humor with serious reflections on Austin County’s future, as well as its resilience and community spirit. He highlighted the area’s challenges and successes, ultimately showing that Austin County is continuously growing and adapting to serve its residents better.

 

 

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