The Brownsville City Commission at a special meeting Monday chose Interim City Manager Helen Ramirez as the new city manager.
Ramirez became Brownsville deputy city manager in February 2019, also serving as executive director of the Greater Brownsville Incentives Corporation from February 2021 until stepping down last July to become interim city manager after the departure of former city manager Noel Bernal.
The commissioners voted Monday to authorize Mayor Trey Mendez to execute an employment contract with Ramirez. District 3 City Commissioner Roy de Los Santos was the sole “nay” vote, though he along with the other commissions congratulated Ramirez following the vote.
District 2 City Commissioner Jessica Tetreau-Kalifa commented that Ramirez is the first female city manager in Brownsville’s history.
“Welcome to the city of Brownsville,” quipped Mendez, congratulating Ramirez.
“It’s an honor to serve you as your next city manager in this beautiful community,” she said. “It’s been my home and the home of my husband, Juan, and our three kids. We are very happy to be here and serve you alongside our over 1,200 dedicated employees. It’s an honor for me and for them. And I just want to continue to make you proud and implement all your policies and your visions here at the city of Brownsville. Thank you for opportunity.”
Ramirez was among two finalists for the job. The other was Rick Davis, formerly city manager of Bayview.
“In case Mr. Davis is watching, I just want to thank him for applying to this position,” Mendez said. “I want to thank him for being part of the process.”
