Carl Harbert seeks re-election in Bridge City

Hello, my name is Carl Harbert, and I am seeking re-election to the Bridge City Council, Place One. I have served on the council these past four years as your voice in city government.

My wife and I have been residents of Bridge City for the last 36 years, raised 5 children in this community which we call "home". Two of our children are graduates of BCHS. We are members at First Baptist Bridge City and enjoy the worship and fellowship with other fellow Christians. Eleven years ago, I retired as Plant Manager for A&A Fertilizer and being retired has allowed me to actively follow various city projects.

Many of you will recall the demanding situation the city faced with an ongoing water quality problem. I was genuinely concerned about the issue, as were others on the council. I actively followed the installation of the new water purification system and worked closely with the water department employees flushing lines. The flushing activities were conducted in the midnight hours as to lessen the impact on families and business. I worked alongside the Water Department personnel in these flushing procedures and believe me, they are a dedicated group of guys.

Recent weather events have brought the drainage concerns to many citizens here in Bridge City. I have spoken with many of you about these issues and resolved several. The drainage work continues and hopefully we can address others soon. I was able to work with the Sewer Department for the purchasing and installation of new equipment which will provide additional cost savings to the city. Our streets and roads challenges seem never-ending. Tammie Fissette and I worked long years on a particular street problem. The Franklin Street issue is much improved. I received a nice email from a resident on Franklin thanking Tammie and I for our 3 year effort to get the roadway replaced entirely.

In addition to my council duties, I have taken a personal interest in our Police Department. I have taken the opportunity to get to know each officer on the force and have supported them in numerous ways. The entire department is a professional group, and they support the highest level of integrity. To further the ability or police, fire department and first responders to react to emergency needs, I am working, along with others on the council, to get an ordinance passed which would require house numbers to be visible for our responders. Ease of identification could reduce response times for those in need.

Along with the police department employees, I have also become familiar with our municipal court proceedings as well as it's personnel. On most Wednesdays, you will find me assisting the court in whatever capacity needed. The recent COVID protocol mandates regarding how groups of people may gather has been difficult to adhere to, but they are doing an excellent job in speeding up most cases.

One of my highest responsibilities as a council member is to do all I can, to ensure that the citizens's tax dollars are spent wisely. If an item or expenditure comes to the council that I do not understand, I will not hesitate to question and review such items. "It's your money" and it is my job to be a thorough and prudent administrator of those resources.

During the past four years, I have taken the role as a council member quite serious. I count it an honor and a privilege to have served the citizens and community of Bridge City. I have always felt it my responsibility to stand for the best interest of all concerned. Again, I am asking for your vote in the upcoming elections and looking forward to serving you once again, as we grow, improve and create a more desirable community.

Thank you for your support!