The Tomball City Council swore in its newest member, Chad Degges, at a special meeting on Jan. 27 and also named councilman Derek Townsend Sr. as its new mayor pro-tem.

Degges, a local business owner, won the race for Position 3 on the Tomball City Council in a special election held Jan. 18. He received 313 votes, while his opponent, local business owner Lori Ball, received 142 votes, according to official results from the city of Tomball.

"I am very excited to be a part of the Tomball City Council and to have the opportunity to work with such a great group of people," Degges said.

Position 3 was previously held by Rick Brown, who vacated his seat after moving outside the city limits, City Secretary Doris Speer said. Brown also served as mayor pro-tem before leaving the council. Councilman Townsend will now serve as mayor pro-tem.

Degges, who owns Houston-based Heat Transfer Specialists Inc., is a board member of the Tomball Economic Development Corporation and serves on the Tomball City Charter Review Commission. He previously served on the board of adjustments with the city of Tomball.

"I've always thought good government is no accident," said Degges, who is married and has three sons. "We're lucky to have this great community."

Meetings

Tomball City Council

Meets at 6 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of every month. Its next meetings are scheduled for Feb. 17 and March 3.

401 Market St., Tomball