PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Judge Bill Gravell

Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell announced his resignation from Commissioners Court March 11, having been tapped by the Trump administration to serve as Region 6 advocate for the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Advocacy. Aside from national press releases and network attention, he is one of only three individuals hired in an agency that was directed by Executive Order to terminate thousands. The Judge says, "I am honored to serve the President and the 4.5 million businesses that make up Region 6. I look forward to working on their behalf across Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and advocating on their behalf." Judge Gravell has already completed his onboarding process and is reaching out to companies familiar to the Austin metroplex but who also have offices around the region. His duties include meeting with and speaking to city councils, members of congress, and more.

STEVE SNELL

Williamson County Commissioners Court appointed Steven Snell as county judge following the resignation of Judge Bill Gravell. Snell, former superintendent of Liberty Hill ISD, led the fast-growing district through major expansions, including two bond elections totaling more than $1 billion. A longtime education and civic leader, Snell will serve until the next general election in November 2026. He was sworn in on April 21.

AUGUSTIN "AUGUST" ALVARADO

August transitioned from his role as Deputy Chief of Staff to U.S. Representative John Carter to become the Director of District Court Administration for Williamson County, Texas. In his current position, he provides primary staff support to the Local Administrative District Judge, The Honorable Betsy Lambeth, coordinating operations for the District Courts as a unit. This move reflects his continued commitment to public service, shifting from a federal legislative role to a key administrative position within the county's judicial system.

MIKE LUGO

Lugo was sworn in as Williamson County Fire Marshal, following his appointment by the Commissioners Court for a two-year term. With 22 years of fire and EMS leadership experience, Lugo brings a commitment to enhancing fire prevention, safety education, and community preparedness. Previously serving as Fire Chief in League City, Texas, Lugo managed daily operations, developed long-term plans, and ensured emergency services kept pace with growth.

Lugo holds a bachelor’s degree in fire administration and advanced certifications, including Chief Fire Officer designation.

REBECCA CLEMONS

Clemons was appointed as Williamson County's first-ever county manager, a significant new role created to manage the county’s administrative operations and growth. This position was introduced to provide direct supervision over various management and administrative staff and to support departmental and long-range planning while ensuring compliance with policies and strategic goals. Clemons previously served as the senior director of human resources for Williamson County.

CHRISTIAN KURTZ

Liberty Hill, Texas, welcomed Christian Kurtz as its new Director of Economic Development. Bringing extensive experience from a similarly rapidly growing city, Kurtz is set to steer Liberty Hill through its expansion challenges with innovative strategies tailored to local needs. His primary goals include boosting sales tax revenue and creating quality jobs to enhance services while keeping taxes low. Kurtz's appointment promises dynamic leadership aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth and enriching the community.