The City of Bay City, TX is the county seat of Matagorda County, located about an hour from Houston and 20 miles from the Texas Gulf Coast. It covers an area of 8.5 square miles and has a population of over 17,500 people[1]. Here are some key aspects of Bay City: ## Overview - Location and Size: Bay City is situated in a strategic position near the Gulf Coast, making it a small-town coastal community with a total area of 8.5 square miles[1]. - Population: As of recent data, Bay City has a population of over 17,500 residents[1]. ## Economy - Main Industries: The city's economy is predominantly driven by the retail and service industries, which account for nearly 70% of the jobs within the city limits[1]. - Economic Development: Bay City is part of the Texas Main Street program, which focuses on economic development through historic preservation and community self-reliance[1]. ## Government - Government Structure: Bay City operates under a home-rule City Manager-Council form of government. The elected body includes a Mayor and five council members elected at-large by the community[3]. - Elected Officials: The current Mayor is Robert K. Nelson, who began his term in 2019. Other council members include Benjamin Flores, Jim Folse, Brad Westmoreland, Becca Sitz, and Blayne Finlay[3][4]. ## Departments and Services - City Departments: Bay City has various departments such as the City Secretary's Office, Planning & Development Services, Finance Department, Fire Department, and Parks & Recreation[5]. - Airport: The city is served by the Bay City Regional Airport, which supports general and business aviation[5]. ## Community Development - Bay City Community Development Corporation: This organization aims to create a welcoming environment for businesses and residents, fostering economic growth and community development[2]. For more information, you can visit the official website of the City of Bay City at http://www.cityofbaycity.org or explore the Bay City Community Development Corporation on LinkedIn.