City of Katy voters awarded current mayor William H. “Dusty” Thiele another term in office, in an overwhelming victory. Incumbent Thiele received 86.89 per cent (1902) of the vote, with challenger Michael A. Payne garnering 13.11 per cent (287).

Payne congratulated Thiele in a concession statement posted to his Facebook page late on May 3, which read in part: “The fight isn’t over yet. I’ll continue to stay involved wherever I can and with current councilmembers terming out in 2026, only when we work together can [we] ensure better representation is voted in.” He added, “We’ve been on a slippery slope that only strong leadership can straighten out.”

In a statement to the Katy Times on May 6, Thiele said: “There is still important work ahead, and I remain fully committed to serving the City of Katy with the same dedication and purpose that has guided my leadership from the beginning.”

“Looking ahead, the vision for Katy remains clear. From enhancing public safety and infrastructure to promoting economic development, the City Council and I will continue to work to complete vital initiatives already underway,” the statement continued. “We will also keep investing in our Historic Town Square, supporting local businesses, and providing high-quality parks and recreational spaces—preserving the small-town charm and values that make Katy unique.”

“In many ways, our post-election goals mirror those that brought us to this point,” Thiele said. “The commitment to serving the people of Katy with professionalism, respect, and a shared focus on what’s best for our community remains unchanged. I look forward to continuing to work alongside the City Council and our dedicated City staff to meet the challenges ahead and build a bright future for all who call Katy home.”

All of the propositions – proposing amendments to the city’s charter -- which sent to voters failed by wide margins. The propositions were initiated by Councilmember Dan Smith and supported by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Harris and Councilmember Rory Robertson. A unanimous vote of council sent the measures to voters for approval.

*Proposition A, which was designed to ensured that when the mayor is absent the mayor pro tem is allowed to count toward a quorum and vote, failed, garnering only 40.02 per cent (892) of ballots, with 59.98 per cent (1337) opposed.

*Proposition B -- removing the automatic resignation of the mayor should the mayor file to run for another office if the unexpired term of the office does not exceed one year and 30 days --– also failed, gaining only 36.29 per cent (803) of the vote,with 63.71 per cent (1410) opposed.

*Proposition C – similar to Proposition A but relating to council members -- did not pass, getting only 36.62 per cent (805) of the vote, with 63.38 per cent (1393) opposed to the measure.

*Proposition D, giving appointed department heads the right to appeal city council in the event of a termination, was not approved, with only 41.42 per cent (912) of the vote favoring the measure, and 58.58 per cent (1290) opposed to the measure.

*Proposition E, which would have extended term limits for city council members from two three-year terms to four three-year terms, failed by the widest margin, with only 28.97 per cent (640) in favor, and 71.03 per cent (1569) opposed.

Three council members’ terms will expire in 2026 – Mayor Pro Tem and At Large member Chris Harris, Ward B councilmenber Rory Robertson and Ward B councilmember Gina Hicks.