About Us

The City of Bay City is located in southeast Texas, near the Texas Gulf Coast. The City spans approximately $8.87$ square miles (including $0.12$ square miles of water area), with an elevation of $52$ feet. Bay City is the county seat of Matagorda County. We are accessible via State Highways $35$ and $60$, and FM $457$, which provide direct access to Houston and the market areas of Brazoria, Jackson, and Wharton Counties.

The City of Bay City was incorporated in $1902$ and adopted a Home Rule Charter in $1989$. Bay City operates under a Council-Manager form of government. The elected body consists of a Mayor and five Council Members, all elected on an at-large basis. The City Manager is responsible for administering the City’s daily operations, advising and assisting the City Council, and representing the City's interests to external agencies, business interests, and the community at large.

Vision

Through a united and collaborative effort, we seek to grow Bay City by fostering a diverse culture where citizens are proud to call it home. We envision a thriving, family-centered community where citizens are actively involved in the future development of our city. We desire our citizens to work, play, worship, and shop in the community where we live. Visitors are welcomed and encouraged to enjoy the friendly environment and amenities that our citizens and business owners have created together.

Mission

The City of Bay City is committed to fostering future economic growth by collaborating with our citizens, employers, businesses, and Community and Economic Development Centers. We strive to deliver superior municipal services and invest in quality-of-life initiatives such as housing, businesses, jobs, and activities for all citizens. We make a concerted effort to respond to residents' concerns in a timely and professional manner to achieve high customer satisfaction.

City Services

The City’s primary objective is Public Safety. A full-time equivalent staff of $61$ employees is dedicated to serving the community efficiently and cost-effectively.

  • The Police Department operates one police station with $39$ sworn police officers dedicated to serving and protecting our citizens.

  • The Bay City Volunteer Fire Department, consisting of $27$ volunteers, provides fire suppression and rescue protection.

  • Our Animal Control Department, consisting of two Animal Control Officers, responds to all animal calls in conjunction with the Animal Impound Facility.

Utilities

The City of Bay City owns and operates its own water and wastewater systems, as well as the Bay City Gas Company. Sanitation services are contracted out to GLF.

Culture and Recreation

Known as "The Gateway to the Great Outdoors," Bay City and the surrounding Matagorda County offer a variety of recreational opportunities. Citizens can enjoy the City’s $23$ parks, a splash pad, pool, and a sports complex. Local attractions include the Matagorda County Birding and Nature Center, Rio Colorado Golf Course, Shulman Movie Bowl Grill, Bowlera, Bay City Public Library, Matagorda County Museum, and the downtown square.