 Welcome
to the City of Cross Plains, Texas
Ray Purvis was born in Cross Plains, Texas in September of 1943.
He attended Cross Plains Schools where he graduated in 1962. Ray
attended barber college and graduated in 1963. He established his
first barber business in Clyde, Texas and then in Albany, Texas.
Because of his love for Cross Plains, Ray purchased a local barber
business in Cross Plains in 1965 when it became available. Then, in
1973, he purchased another local barber business, becoming the only
barber in Cross Plains. He continues to serve the citizens of Cross
Plains and the surrounding communities in this business. In 1969,
Ray married Kathy Payne. Ray and Kathy have two children - Angie and
Kevin.
In 1978, Ray was appointed to the City Council to fill the
position of another member of the council. After serving the
remainder of that term, Ray sought a seat on the council in general
election. He was elected to the council where
he served the citizens of Cross Plains until 1990. In 1990, Ray ran for Mayor's office and was elected to a two year term. In
1992 Ray was once again elected to the City Council . Then in 1994
Ray was elected as Mayor and has continued to serve in this capacity
to the present, gaining re-election after each two year term. In
total, Ray has served the citizens of Cross Plains for 30 years with
integrity and authenticity.
During his tenure as Mayor the City has seen significant changes
and progress in both infrastructure and operation. Ray was
instrumental in the acquisition of several properties for the
purpose of supplementing the City's water supply. In the late 70's,
the City acquired the Spivey well field and a new raw water line was
laid to bring this much needed water to town. Afterwards, the City
built a new sewer system, a new City Hall, new parks, Community
Center, and many other quality of life improvements. City streets
have been paved and new operating equipment has been purchased for
the smooth operation of our City.
Ray and Kathy are members of First Baptist Church in Cross Plains
where Kathy serves in the Choir, while Ray is part of the audio and
video team. Ray is also a 32nd degree Mason and serves as Secretary
of this organization. Both Ray and Kathy have dedicated many years
to the citizens of Cross Plains and are highly respected members of
the community.
OFFICE OF MAYOR
The mayor is elected to a two year term, serves as the Executive Officer of the City and
along with five council members governs the City of Cross Plains.
All five council members are elected to office to serve two year
terms. As the City's chief administrator and official
representative, the Mayor is responsible for the general management
of the City and for seeing that all laws and ordinances are
enforced. Administrative duties include the appointments, with
Council approval, of department heads and persons serving on
advisory boards. As Executive Officer, the Mayor administers oaths
and signs all motions, resolutions and ordinances passed by City
Council. The Mayor also serves a legislative function, presiding
over City Council with voting privileges when the case reaches a tie
vote. The Mayor is responsible
for advising Council of the City's financial condition and presents
to Council an annual budget for approval. The City Administrator
assists him in the day to day operations of city government. The
city has five departments serving the citizens of Cross Plains with
six full time employees and two part time employees.
“This site has been developed to help you discover one of
Americas' friendliest cities Cross Plains, Texas. If you are a
business owner or a city resident, or you are planning a visit to
our city, you will find that this web site will provide you with
many resources. Our city is committed to open and accessible
government. You will find links to city departments, community
resources and upcoming events. Cross Plains is located in the heart
of Texas. We are a city of 1,068 plus warm and friendly people. We
are committed to providing a safe, clean environment and to making
our city as user friendly as possible.
Please do not hesitate to call me if I can help you in anyway.”
Sincerely,
Ray Purvis
Mayor
|