Katy council confirms Byron Abare as city administrator and appoints Joey Killian as assistant city administrator

KATY, Texas — After reconvening from executive session at 7:51 p.m., the Katy City Council on Aug. 11 approved a resolution authorizing the mayor to enter an employment agreement with Byron J. Abare to serve as city administrator from Oct. 1, 2025, through Sept. 30, 2028. The council also approved an ordinance appointing Joey Killian as assistant city administrator and administered his oath of office at the meeting.

Councilmembers praised Abare for his city leadership and experience. Councilmember Gina Hicks said she appreciated the continuity he provides and thanked him for agreeing to continue serving. Councilmember Janet Court said she has enjoyed long conversations and ideas developed under his leadership. Councilmember Dan Smith described Abare’s knowledge and judgment as “very meaningful” personally and professionally.

“Thank you for staying on and looking forward to it,” Court said during the meeting.

Why it matters

The timed appointments set the city administrator role and the assistant city administrator position through the next few years and implement personnel and classification updates the council adopted in the same meeting.

What council decided

The resolution and ordinances were approved by voice vote. City staff will execute the employment agreement and complete onboarding steps for the effective dates specified in the documents.

Provenance (transcript excerpts)

- Executive session announced at 07:24 p.m.; council reconvened and took action to authorize the employment agreement with Byron J. Abare (transcript 07:24–07:51).

- Motion and confirmation of Joey Killian as assistant city administrator and oath administered (transcript 07:51–08:06).