It was standing room only at the Brownsville City Hall Chambers as family members and others joined in to witness the official swearing-in of the City of Brownsville’s newest elected officials.

Mayor John Cowen Jr., District 1 Commissioner Bryan L. Martinez, and District 2 Commissioner Linda C. Macias, were all administered the oath of office by U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera Jr., Judge Adela Kowalski Garza, of the 484th state District Court, and Judge Janet Leal, of the 103rd state District Court, respectively and individually.

Family members pulled out their smartphones and snapped photos and took videos of their loved ones being administered the oath of office, while the audience in the chambers gave them applause and standing ovations.

Cowen, Jr, born and raised in Brownsville, is a sixth-generation Texan with deep roots in the community.  He is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and brings over 20-years of experience in international trade and real estate development. His dedication to public service is evidenced by his numerous contributions to local nonprofits and community organizations. As a previous Brownsville City Commissioner, Cowen is known for his commitment to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and economic development.

"I am honored to serve as the Mayor of Brownsville," said Cowen. "I am eager to work with the City leadership, staff, and most importantly, our residents, to make Brownsville a City that continues to thrive and grow. Together, we can make our City a more resilient, vibrant, and prosperous community."

Martinez is the youngest Commissioner ever elected to serve the citizens of District 1. He has been an active member of the community from a very young age, beginning in the La Posada and Southmost areas, and later in the greater Brownsville area. As a champion for non-profit causes Martinez has proudly given his professional services to organizations over the years, and because of his efforts, is well aware of the value potential of investing in and lifting up existing local businesses in our community and transforming Brownsville into one of the most business-friendly communities in South Texas.

 "I am humbled and excited to bring a new generation of leadership to Brownsville," said Martinez, "By our community coming together and in working with local elected officials, Brownsville can achieve its potential for regaining public trust, achieving positive change, and driving economic development for our city and setting the example for south Texas."

 Macias was born, raised, and educated in Brownsville. Macias has been in the education system for the last ten years and has worked with many non-profit organizations. As a community activist and enthusiast, she is motivated to move Brownsville forward. Macias is proud and grateful for the opportunity to serve as a city commissioner.

  “I would like to thank my husband and my family who dedicated their time and efforts into this campaign. We had many conversations and what we heard were the need to work on infrastructure such as roads, sidewalks, and drainage,” Macias said. 

Other things she plans on working on are improving the quality of life and economic opportunity for all. In addition, she plans on working with constituents, city staff, and the city commission to complete projects that are most important to Brownsville.