City Honors Outgoing Councilman

May 27, 2011 - The City of Katy recognized outgoing council member Kenneth Berger during a special meeting last Thursday for his service and dedication to the city.

Berger was appointed to fill a vacancy on the city council in July 2004. He was elected to a two-year term in 2005 and reached his term limit this year.

"I'd just like to thank the citizens of Katy for giving me the opportunity to represent them," Berger said. "It really was an honor. It's a wonderful city. There's so many things going on in the city, and there's so many opportunities that made it very enjoyable to be a part of this organization."

Berger said when he and wife Debbie moved to Katy in 1973, the first thing she asked was, "Where's the shopping center?" At the time, the Bergers were family No. 209 at St. Bartholomew the Apostle Catholic Church, which now has more than 3,500 families.

"So you can see how much has changed over the times," he said.

Berger said he appreciated the support and guidance of mayor Don Elder Jr., as well as former mayor Doyle Callender.

"I enjoyed the people I worked with - the council, all the council members," he said. "Johnny (Nelson, city administrator) is super; he'll whisper in your ear over there his opinions, which is great. Byron (Hebert, city financial directory) keeps us financially strong, and I appreciate that. And Missy (Bunch, city secretary) always has those little notes just right. And of course Linda (Vourazeris, assistant city secretary) and all the other groups that work with the city, all the department heads - they do a fantastic job.

"I wish I could thank everybody," he said. "We have a wonderful police force and fire department. I think we're so fortunate to have all these wonderful things that many times we take for granted - wonderful leadership and wonderful people."

The council had nice parting words for Berger.

"You bring a tremendous amount of dedication, common sense and intelligence to these meetings, and it's been fun," council member Carol Adams said, joking she has to find someone else to ride the fire truck with her during the annual FFA parade.

"We certainly do appreciate your time and service to the community, and we wish you the very best," council member Hank Schmidt said.

Elder said he appreciates Berger's contributions to the taxpayers of the community.

"Someone mentioned the common sense factor, which is very negligible in this country today," Elder said. "We don't use enough common sense to make decisions, and I think you always make common sense decisions.

"We'll miss those fun times, but we'll always be here for you, whatever you need. We wish you and your family the best of health in the future, and we will see you. We appreciate all you do for us."

Berger thanked everybody and told them, "I'll be around."