Joyce Berube has dedicated much of her life since she moved to Cy-Fair 30 years ago to Jersey Village City Council and numerous other local organizations. Although her term expires this May, Berube has every intention of staying active in the community before running for reelection in one year.

Berube decided to relocate from New York City to Cy-Fair after her husband retired from the military.

"[We] love to live in Jersey Village because we are in Houston, but at the same time we have a small community village atmosphere," she said.

Before moving to Texas, Berube began her career as a banker, eventually moving up in the ranks to become a vice president for Sterling Bank. While she has retired, Berube still works in real estate; she has been a realtor with Keller Williams Realty-Greater Northwest for 12 years and is a member of several local real estate groups.

In the late '90s, Berube ran for a spot on the Jersey Village City Council, a position she has held for 16 years.

"I wanted to be part of my community and to help my neighbors, friends and family," Berube said.

Berube's wealth of information about the community and personal interest in others will be missed during her time off from council, said Mike Castro, Jersey Village city manager.

"I think she brings a personal touch to the job, and she takes personal interest in the city and its employees," Castro said. "Joyce is one of the most genuine people I know."

During her years on council, some of the most difficult moments and decisions centered on controversies and upset residents, Berube said.

"We had many citizens who didn't agree to buy the golf course, but it has come out as one of the best decisions we made," she said. "Now we have beautiful green space there."

Aside from city council, Berube is involved with numerous organizations such as the Cy-Fair Express Network, the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber, the Business Board of Directors for Lone Star College, Volunteers in Public Schools, the American Business Women's Association and the Salute to the Stars Gala.