City Mayor

Johnny Taylor - City of Kress MayorJohnny Taylor

City of Kress Mayor

    Johnny Taylor grew up in Anton, Texas where he was a all-state receiver in high school. After graduating, Johnny Taylor joined the United States Navy where he was taught discipline and responsibility. He was later honorable discharge as a veteran military member from the US Navy. In the years after his US Navy service, Johnny became a electrician for several years which lead him to work at a high security prison unit as a electronic lock smith technician for TDCJ. After a few years working under TDCJ, Johnny Taylor decided it was time to run his own business which started as a wireless business that sold Cellular One service. This venture rapidly grew and became a top 10 dealer in the country where he would spend 9 years successful running. Johnny then turned to the automotive industry where he has spent the last 15 years successful being General Manager of 2 dealerships in different towns. Johnny Taylor has had a successful career in leadership, management and customer service. All traits he applies as being the mayor of Kress, TX. Johnny Taylor has determination and wants to work with the community. Only together can we make a difference.

The City of Kress Mayor is the chief administrator. Listed below are just a few of the responsibilities.

  • Overseeing the performance of all Departments
  • Implementing policies and ideas adopted by Council
  • Ensuring that all projects, operations, and functions within the local government & community operate efficiently
  • Ensuring all Local, State, and Federal laws are followed
  • Responding to citizen concerns
  • Help develop a annual city budget
  • Works with other govement branches and administrators in the region

 

Contact Info

Johnny Taylor
Mayor
308 Skipworth Ave, Kress, TX 79052
806-994-5051
j.taylor@cityofkress.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Role of the Mayor

The Mayor is responsible for providing leadership and helping guide the city’s vision, policies, and day-to-day governance. In Texas, small-city mayors typically serve in a general leadership and oversight role rather than managing every department directly.

Key Duties

  • Presides over City Council meetings

  • Works with council members to adopt ordinances, resolutions, and budgets

  • Represents the city at official functions and regional meetings

  • Helps set long-term goals and priorities for Kress

  • Ensures city operations follow Texas law and local ordinances

  • Works with City Hall, Municipal Court, Police, and county partners as needed

  • Acts as a primary point of communication between the city government and the public

What the Mayor Can Do

The Mayor has specific authorities under Texas municipal law:

  • Sign or veto ordinances 

  • Declare local emergencies when necessary

  • Break tie votes on the City Council 

  • Recommend policies and improvements to the City Council

  • Serve as the official representative of Kress in government and public matters

What the Mayor Cannot Do

To ensure fairness and transparency, the Mayor must follow state law and does not have unlimited authority.

The Mayor cannot:

  • Make or pass laws without City Council approval

  • Override the judicial decisions of the Municipal Court

  • Directly control police investigations or court actions

  • Interfere with city staff duties that fall under administrative rules

  • Approve or deny public records requests (handled by City Hall under state law)

  • Make exceptions to ordinances, fees, or established processes

  • Offer legal advice or intervene in personal disputes

How to Approach or Contact the Mayor

The Mayor is available to listen to concerns, answer questions, and help guide residents to the correct resources.

Best Practices

  • Be respectful and patient, many issues require council approval or legal steps

  • Provide clear written concerns or documentation when appropriate

  • Schedule an appointment if the issue requires a longer discussion

  • Understand that some matters must be handled by City Hall, the Municipal Court, or the City Council

Good Topics to Bring to the Mayor

  • Community improvement ideas

  • Questions about city goals and planning

  • Concerns about city services or ordinances

  • Requests for clarification on local government processes

Public Comments to the Mayor During Meetings

When addressing the Mayor at a City Council meeting:

  • Follow posted public comment rules

  • Speak respectfully and stay on topic

  • Recognize that the Mayor cannot debate items not on the agenda

  • Understand that the Mayor may not be able to respond immediately

  • Official responses typically come after council review or staff investigation

How to Become Mayor of Kress, Texas

Residents interested in serving as Mayor must meet standard Texas municipal requirements:

General Requirements

  • Be at least 18 years old

  • Be a U.S. citizen

  • Have no disqualifying felony convictions (per Texas Election Code)

  • Be a registered voter

  • Reside within the city limits of Kress for the required length of time (typically 6–12 months before filing, depending on local rules)

Steps to Run for Mayor

  1. Check eligibility under Texas Election Code and local Kress ordinances.

  2. Submit candidate filing paperwork during the official election filing period.

  3. Prepare a campaign platform and communicate with residents.

  4. Participate in the election conducted by the city or county election authority.

If elected, the new Mayor will take the oath of office at a City Council meeting.

The Mayor’s Responsibility to the Community

The Mayor’s primary mission is to serve the residents of Kress with integrity, transparency, and fairness while promoting the long-term well-being of the city.