THERE IS A NEW JUDGE IN TOWN

There is a new Judge in town.  Newly elected Milam County Judge Steve Young was sworn in on January 1^st.  His main campaign rhetoric was similar to his predecessor Dave Barkemeyer.  His campaign promises were to go after economic development and better roads for the county.  I attended his first Commissioners Court Meeting on the 14^th, and I can tell you I believe he is the real deal.  

He certainly has taken office at a good point in time for the county.  Looks like there will be a lot happening out at the Alcoa property in the future.   I am not speaking of Bitmain, but another new tenant that will be much larger than Bitmain.  My sources told me to think of the biggest thing I could think of and the new resident is going to be much bigger.  Judge Young echoed these same comments at the meeting.  We should know sometime before the end of April just exactly what and how big it is going to be.

Back in October I wrote an article about the serendipity that was occurring and would occur in the future at the Alcoa property.  Judge Young went on to mention that what was happening at Alcoa he or the county had no control over.  He added that all elected officials and citizens of Milam County could help by welcoming whatever new business was to come to the county.  Things will continue to happen at the Alcoa property, and all of Milam County will benefit
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Judge Young's use of the power point during his presentation was excellent and very professionally done.  The text was actually visible in the back row.  Even my old man eyes could read the slides.  His overall approach to the meeting was much more upbeat.  Very refreshing to hear positive things presented in a positive manner.  I left the meeting feeling optimistic about our future.  Only thing that I heard negative was one of the media attending was upset that he did not follow the agenda.  A minor issue for a first timer. 

The energy and enthusiasm Steve exudes is refreshing.  As he said during the meeting there is not a whole lot the county or judge can do to make it happen, but we can all help it happen with a positive and welcoming attitude.  I do not mean to criticize Judge Barkemeyer he served during some tough times and did a good job with what he had to work with.  Judge Young is stepping in at a good time to ride the wave headed our way, and I know he will do a great job at moving Milam County forward.