WHITEHOUSE, Texas – The City of Whitehouse released its 2024 Annual Report, highlighting a year of significant growth, infrastructure improvements, and public safety advancements while maintaining financial stability and a strong sense of community engagement.
New City Center to Open in 2025
One of the city’s most anticipated projects, the Whitehouse City Center, is set to open in the summer of 2025 at 109 East Main. The facility will feature event spaces, meeting rooms, and executive offices for the Whitehouse Economic Development Corporation and the Whitehouse Area Chamber of Commerce. City officials say the center will serve as a hub for community engagement, collaboration, and professional development.
Public Safety Enhancements
The city reported a 49% drop in crime rates since 2019 and reduced emergency response times from 4 minutes and 19 seconds to 3 minutes and 50 seconds. Investments in police and fire departments included new patrol vehicles, body cameras, and advanced emergency response tools such as a Lucas CPR device. The city also expanded public safety training programs and increased full-time staff to better serve the growing community.
Infrastructure and Community Development
Infrastructure improvements were a priority in 2024, with updates to water and sewer systems following a comprehensive study. Utility rates saw a 6% increase in sewer charges, translating to approximately $1.18 per month, to maintain operations and support future projects.
The city also completed drainage improvements along Hagan Road and implemented a fire hydrant maintenance program using GIS technology to enhance emergency preparedness. Additionally, Whitehouse partnered with the City of Tyler to install redundant fiber for improved connectivity and system resiliency.
Expanding Green Spaces and Recreation
Whitehouse made strides in developing public parks and recreation spaces. The city acquired additional parkland to expand green space, transitioned the City Splash Pad into a free public facility, and improved the Whitehouse Sports Complex with new amenities, including emergency equipment.
Volunteer efforts played a significant role in community development. The Blackhawk Creek Hike and Bike Trail saw enhancements through a local leadership project, adding educational signage and wildlife preservation initiatives.
Strengthening Community Engagement
The city continued to host popular events, including Christmas on Main, the Farmers Market, the Annual Easter Egg Hunt, and National Night Out. More than 600 volunteer hours were contributed to local cleanup efforts through Keep Whitehouse Beautiful, and multiple organizations collaborated to strengthen youth engagement, commerce, and cultural activities.
Financial Stability and Economic Development
Whitehouse maintained its current property tax rate while approving a $15 million budget for 2025. The city also saw two bond rating increases within the past five years, reflecting financial stability and responsible governance.
To boost economic growth, the Whitehouse Economic Development Corporation partnered with The Retail Coach to implement a retail recruitment strategy to attract new businesses. “According to their website, “The Retail Coach’s partnerships with our client communities are built on mutual respect and collaboration that ensure tailored solutions to sustain retail economic development in every community we serve.”
The city also appointed a new Economic Development Executive Director to spearhead initiatives for sustained growth.
Looking Ahead
As Whitehouse prepares for 2025, city leaders emphasize continued investment in public safety, infrastructure, and economic development while fostering strong community engagement.
“The accomplishments of 2024 reflect our commitment to creating a thriving community for all residents,” Mayor James Wansley said in a statement. “We look forward to building on these achievements and making Whitehouse an even better place to live, work, and play.”
Wansley also said “While many cities are dialing back in an attempt to recover from additional costs and a slumping economy, Whitehouse is continuing to run lean while building momentum.