Larry Mathis, recently retired Brownwood High School Theatre Director, UIL Coordinator and longtime Debate and Speech Coach, is announcing his candidacy for Brownwood City Councilman, Ward Three.
Mathis noted, “Though I have always held a keen interest in politics, it is not politics, but a sense of service and commitment to the community of Brownwood that prompts my decision to run for city council. With encouragement from many friends and the support of my wife Terri, I look forward to sharing my vision and sense of service.”
Mathis retired in May 2014 from BISD after 30 years of service. During that tenure the department was recognized statewide and Mathis was honored in 2014 by the University Interscholastic League as one of only 15 Athletic or Academic Coaches in the state to receive the prestigious UIL Sponsor Excellence Award. The award was presented in a special ceremony at the high school and presented by State Representative Jim Keffer. Mr. Mathis was also named the 2014 ‘Professional of the Year’ awarded by the Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce and presented by Mayor Stephen Haynes.
Mathis has been involved in numerous civic projects including a twelve year tenure with the Brownwood Lyric Theatre where he serves as Technical Director and is currently directing a melodrama scheduled for performance in March. Additionally, he wrote and directed for 20 years the Mystery Dinner Plays as part of the annual fundraiser for THE ARK. Mathis also serves on the Board of Directors of the Gordon Wood Hall of Fame.
He and his wife Terri are longtime members of First United Methodist Church where he has taught the Trinity Class for more than 20 years and served as past president of United Methodist Men. His wife Terri is a Speech Pathologist with Heart of Texas Coop in Brady. They have three grown children and three great grand children.
“This community was so supportive of our program at BHS and so good to all of our children as they grew up here. I hope that in some way I can give back a measure of that support by serving the citizens of Brownwood as a council member and looking ahead to the many great things in store for our city,” Mathis said.