Gravell accepted a role in President Donald Trump's administration with the U.S. Small Business Administration in the Office of Advocacy as the Region 6 advocate.
What you need to know
In the new role, Gravell said he’ll represent New Mexico, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas.
“It's a great honor to serve and be the voice for 4.5 million small businesses that make the south central region of the United States our home,” Gravell said.
Gravell’s new position with the Small Business Administration will allow him to remain in Williamson County, he said.
“As a kid, growing up at 1402 E. Main St. in Round Rock, Texas—golly, I never would have imagined the day that I would have the opportunity to serve our nation in this capacity,” Gravell said.
Gravell's wife and family surrounded him while 425th District Court Judge Betsy Lambeth swore him into office for his new role at the March 11 Commissioners Court meeting.
How we got here
Gravell was elected as county judge in 2018 and previously served as a justice of the peace from 2015-18.
Throughout his time as county judge, Williamson County has seen the expansion of Apple, Samsung and Kalahari Resorts & Conventions.
Gravell reflected on the challenges he’s experienced as judge, from a global pandemic to tornadoes and winter storms.
“Each of these experiences have prepared me for this new role to serve our nation,” Gravell said. “To the more than 700,000 residents in Williamson County, I'll never be able to fully express my gratitude for the trust that you've placed in me. And to the 2,000 dedicated county employees, I've had the privilege of leading you.”
Looking ahead
A Commissioners Court meeting is scheduled March 14 at 11 a.m. to allow commissioners to accept Gravell’s resignation and work out procedures going forward in appointing a new county judge, Precinct 3 Commissioner Valerie Covey said.
“The Commissioners Court is responsible for appointing the next county judge, and we will not do that lightly,” Covey said.
As the most senior member of the court, Covey is the presiding officer until the next county judge is appointed.
