The Katy City Council Monday extended the contract of City Administrator Byron Hebert for three years, expiring Sept. 30, 2025.

As city administrator, Hebert supervises all city departments, though Police Chief Noe Diaz and Fire Chief Kenneth Parker report directly to Mayor Dusty Thiele.

Ward A Council Member Janet Corte, who along with Council Member-at-Large and Mayor Pro Tem Chris Harris are the longest-serving members of the current council, thanked Hebert for sharing his knowledge of how the city works.

“I’ve learned so much from you, Byron, even before I was elected,” Corte said. “You talk to me about all those different means of funding. I still refer to that cheat sheet today.”

Corte joked that she heard a rumor that Hebert was retiring. Hebert indicated that was not the case.

“The rumors are not correct,” Hebert said.

Harris said council members have always had a “fun relationship” with Hebert.

“I always tell people that this is an adversarial relationship,” Harris said. “But I have to say he carries out the will of the elected council and mayor. Advise, warn and guide. He does it very well, and we appreciate it.”

Ward B Council Member Gina Hicks thanked Hebert for his service and years of knowledge.

The other Ward B council member, Rory Robertson, said he does not think the public appreciates how much is pulling on Hebert as he leads the city. Still, Robertson said, he can call Hebert with the question and always get an immediate answer.

“I like the direction in which you’re leading the city,” Robertson told Hebert.

Ward A Council Member Dan Smith said he was happy Hebert would continue in his role and cited Hebert’s wealth of knowledge.

“We didn’t always see eye-to-eye at the beginning, and sometimes we get into spirited conversations,” Smith told Hebert. “But I know you’re an advocate for the city.”

Hebert became city administrator in 2014, succeeding the late Johnny Nelson, who had served as mayor from 1983-87 and later became city administrator. Heber served as the city’s finance director before he became city administrator.

Thiele, who took office in May, is the fourth mayor under which Hebert has served as city administrator. He served under mayors Fabol Hughes (2013-17), Chuck Brawner (2017-2019) and Bill Hastings (2019-22).

“It is amazing what goes on up there with him in the staff,” Thiele said, describing himself as a rookie who has learned much in the last three months since taking office.

“I appreciate the team you lead and what you do,” Thiele told Hebert.