Meet Williamson County's next top leader, Steven Snell
GEORGETOWN, Texas (KXAN) — Williamson County Commissioners have appointed the next county judge. On Thursday night, in a three-to-one vote, commissioners approved Steven Snell.
Russ Boles, commissioner for Precinct 4, voted against Snell's appointment.
Steven Snell is currently the superintendent for the Liberty Hill Independent School District and has served the district for the past six years. A press release from Williamson County noted that the district has grown by 126% in enrollment in the last five years. It said Snell led the community through two successful bond elections with construction projects totaling more than $1 billion.
As the incoming judge, Snell will help lead Williamson County and its budget.
“We are excited to work alongside Steven in setting the priorities for Williamson County through our budget and our strategic plan," Precinct 3 Commissioner Valerie Covey said in the release.
Back in August 2024, commissioners approved a $635,129,938 budget for October 2024 through September 2025. That includes the general fund, road and bridge fund and debt service fund.
Precinct 1 Commissioner Terry Cook said Thursday that Snell was chosen from four candidates, which made for a tough decision.
"The choice has got to carry us into the future, and it's coming at us hard and fast, and I think Steven Snell is ready to take us there," she said.
Before leading Liberty Hill, Snell served as Spring Hill ISD superintendent and Hutto ISD assistant superintendent. He is a Leander resident and active community member, according to the county's release. He has a bachelor's and master's degree from Texas Tech University.
He takes over after former County Judge Bill Gravell resigned in early March to take a job with President Donald Trump's administration.
Gravell is taking on the role as Region 6 advocate for the Small Business Administration (SBA). The SBA is a federal agency dedicated to helping small businesses by providing counseling, capital, and contracting expertise. During Gravell's absence, Commissioner Covey, the most tenured court member, served as the presiding officer of the court.
Snell will serve as county judge until the next general election on November 3, 2026.
“I am truly honored to be appointed to this position to serve the citizens of Williamson County,” said Snell in the release.