KATY MAGAZINE NEWS
March 14, 2025
By Natalie Cook Clark
Katy Mayor William “Dusty” Thiele has filed for re-election as he continues to make a difference in a city undergoing immense growth. Through his leadership Thiele both inspires and is inspired by this big city with small town charm.
Katy Mayor William “Dusty” Thiele has filed for re-election for his second term as mayor. The election is May 3, 2025 and he is running against Katy resident Michael Anthony Payne. Thiele took office in 2022 after an uncontested race when former Mayor Bill Hastings announced his decision to retire.
A Life in Service
Serving is what Thiele was raised to do. His father was a minister and his mother was a nurse. Both dedicated their lives to serving others and their community.
“Giving back to the community has been ingrained in me since childhood,” says Mayor Thiele. “When I moved to Katy, I had the opportunity to meet remarkable elected officials whose deep love for this city inspired me. That led me to serve on the City Planning and Zoning Commission, which became the launching point for my public service in Katy.”
Thiele has lived in Katy for 35 years. He owned and operated Thiele Insurance Agency. His daughters Sarah Goffinet and Laura Anne Thiele were raised here and attended Katy Elementary, Katy Junior High, and Katy High School.
“Both my daughters were Katy Tigers cheerleaders, a tradition that holds a special place in my heart,” says Mayor Thiele. “Katy has been more than just my home — it’s where I built my family, my business, and my community.”
Thiele says that one of his greatest privileges in this role has been the chance to meet and know the City employees.
The Dedication of City Employees
“Every day, I am amazed by the dedication and hard work of our City employees,” says Mayor Thiele. “Their loyalty and commitment to serving Katy’s residents are truly commendable.”
He says that they function as a cohesive unit, always striving for the best outcomes for Katy. Before serving the city as Mayor, Thiele served on the City Council and was the Chairman for the City of Katy Conventions and Tourism Bureau Board. In these positions, and now as Mayor he continues to move the city forward especially through this stage of great growth.
Throughout his first term significant milestones were met that include the annexation of Home Depot to strengthen the city’s economic base, the adoption of a Master Parks Plan and a Master Comprehensive Plan, and securing a $33.5 million Mobility Package to enhance the infrastructure.
Thiele also appointed Bryon Woytek, a 30-year veteran of the Katy Police Department, as the new Chief of Police.
Future Plans
If re-elected, Thiele plans to focus on building upon the momentum he’s created with the city.
“My experience, strong relationships, and deep understanding of our city’s needs will help ensure continued progress in infrastructure, mobility, and essential city services,” says Mayor Thiele. “There’s still important work ahead, and I’m committed to seeing it through.”
Top issues he plans to focus on is drainage and mobility while focusing on enhancing the quality of life which remains the heart of their mission.
“We’ve made strides in flood mitigation, but ongoing improvements are necessary,” says Mayor Thiele. “I will continue securing funding, forming partnerships, and developing strategic plans to advance drainage projects that protect homes and businesses.”
As for mobility, the city has completed major transportation projects, but with continued growth more will be needed.
“I will work with local and regional leaders to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion,” says Mayor Thiele.
A City the People Love
Much of Mayor Thiele and the city’s dedication to preserving Katy as the city that the people love can be seen in the newly renovated Historic Town Square.
“Katy’s Historic Katy Town Square serves as the heart of our community—where tradition meets progress. From local artisan markets at The Katy Exchange to community events that celebrate our heroes and support great causes, our Historic Town Square brings people together,” says Mayor Thiele.
Katy families can experience the Historic Town Square this Saturday, March 15, 2025 at the Katy Exchange from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. There will be over 100 venders, many are local Katy businesses. With live music, food trucks, the new Katy Trolley rides—there will be something for everyone.
“We are proud to honor our past while creating new traditions for future generations,” says Mayor Thiele. “As our city motto says: You’ll love Katy – For Work – For Play – For Life.”
Katy Growth
Katy continues to grow tremendously, and this is seen in the further development of housing communities, more businesses opening, and new schools being built.
“Katy has always been a resilient community, embracing change while staying true to our values. Growth brings challenges, but we tackle them head-on by focusing on what is best for our residents,” says Mayor Thiele. “Every city faces obstacles, but it’s how we handle them that defines us.”
Thiele says he is fortunate to work with an exceptional City Council, a City Administrator who keeps a pulse on all city operations, and a dedicated team of professionals who are ready to meet any challenge.
“Katy continues to be a wonderful place to live and serve, and we are committed to keeping it that way,” says Mayor Thiele.
All former living Katy Mayors.
Thiele loves Katy, but especially loves the City of Katy Off Leash Dog Park and the beautiful walking trail around the lake at the Katy Boardwalk.
Some fun facts about our mayor is that he goes hiking every year to Big Bend National Park and he attends the State High School Basketball Tournament every year with friends he’s had since first grade. He also graduated from Baylor University.
Election day is May 3, 2025 and early voting starts April 22. For more information on the election, visit the website.
“Whether through infrastructure upgrades, public safety enhancements, or economic development, my goal is to ensure Katy thrives while retaining its small-town appeal,” says Mayor Thiele.