The Katy City Council approved the appointment of Byron Hebert as city administrator at its March 24 meeting. Hebert, who served as Katy's Director of Finance prior to this appointment, replaces Johnny Nelson. Nelson retired as city administrator after 20 years in the office.

Since his tenure began in 1994. Nelson has seen Katy through significant growth and development, and was one of key players in bringing the Katy Mills Mall into being, Mayor Hughes said in his proclamation recognizing Nelson's retirement. Before becoming city administrator, Nelson was Katy's mayor from 1983–1987, and Director of the Greater Katy Area Chamber of Commerce from 1988–1990.

"It's a pleasure to work for this city and to work with all the city employees," said Nelson. "It's just been great. I've enjoyed every minute of it."

Hebert was chosen as Nelson's replacement after a long selection process, which involved two interviews as well as personality and aptitude tests. During the discussion following the announcement of Hebert's appointment, council members stated that while they were pleased to fill the City Administrator position from within the current city government, the selection process was quite competitive.

While the council members expressed their enthusiasm over Hebert's appointment and their confidence in his abilities, they also said Nelson will be missed.

"He sincerely desires to make this a better community for all of us," Mayor Hughes said. "City Hall will never be the same."