Brenham officials discuss housing needs for new warehouse workforce

A significant partnership aimed at attracting small manufacturing businesses to Washington County was a key highlight during the recent Commissioners Court meeting on May 22, 2025. Officials discussed the potential for these businesses to thrive in rural areas, particularly as they seek alternatives to Brazos County, which may not be the best fit for their operations.

The meeting revealed that funding from Annie's and other sources is being utilized to create a welcoming environment for these businesses. One commissioner expressed optimism about the partnership's effectiveness, stating, "I think it's gonna work, and I'm hoping to be able to offer more wins as we go further."

In addition to manufacturing, the discussion also touched on housing needs for incoming employees. A representative from HUE shared insights about a new warehouse project in Hempstead, which is expected to create between 1,000 to 1,500 jobs with competitive wages. The representative emphasized the importance of transitional housing options, suggesting that many workers would prefer to live in Washington County rather than Hempstead.

The meeting also highlighted ongoing housing projects in Brenham, with at least eight to ten developments currently underway. These projects aim to provide a mix of multi-family units and smaller lot developments, addressing the growing demand for affordable housing in the area.

As Washington County continues to attract new businesses and residents, officials are committed to ensuring that adequate housing solutions are in place to support this growth. The collaborative efforts between local government and businesses signal a proactive approach to economic development in the region.