Fort Bend County Judge KP George delivered the annual “State of the County” address to a packed audience at the Marriott Sugar Land Hotel on Tuesday, April 30. Hosted by the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce and the Central Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, the event also showcased participants from his esteemed Youth Leadership Program.

During his address, Judge George highlighted the unprecedented population growth Fort Bend County has experienced. The latest United States census data reveals a population exceeding 945,000 residents and a staggering 41% growth over the last decade. Fort Bend has also earned accolades, ranking as the second Most Diverse County in Texas and the fifth Most Diverse County in the nation. With over 100 foreign languages spoken and more than 30% of residents representing internationally diverse backgrounds, Fort Bend epitomizes inclusivity and cultural richness.

Judge George outlined a comprehensive plan for the County's future, with a primary focus on infrastructure and mobility that includes projects presented by the Houston-Galveston Areas Council's groundbreaking $18.76 billion funding plan for transportation infrastructure from 2025 to 2028, the passage of last year's groundbreaking $712 million mobility bond to fund current and future mobility and infrastructure projects, and the allocation of over $38,492,516 from the Texas General Land Office (GLO) to pursue evacuation route and erosion repair projects.

Furthermore, Judge George highlighted the County's investment in economic development, citing the establishment of The Fort Bend County Economic Opportunity & Development Department in 2022. Under the leadership of Carlos Guzman, the department has spearheaded initiatives to streamline processes, foster growth, and create sustainable opportunities for all residents. Notable achievements include the creation of three new Tax Increment Reinvestment Zones throughout the County and a focus on transforming prime industrial sites into vibrant employment hubs. With 60% of the County's land still undeveloped, these initiatives are crucial for fostering economic growth and revitalization.

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Addressing housing initiatives and the integration of AI into County services, Judge George emphasized the County's dedication to innovation and efficiency in serving its residents. The event concluded with a panel discussion featuring Houston Galveston Area Council CEO Chuck Wemple; Fort Bend County Engineer Stacy Slawinski; and CEO, Founder, and President of The Signorelli Company, Danny Signorelli. The panel explored critical topics such as development along the Brazos River, erosion protection, the impact of the Fort Bend Parkway extension on future development, and the prospects of the Signorelli-backed 4,700 sq. ft. Austin Point Development.