On Wednesday, December 10, Mayor Mark Terry officially passed the baton of leadership to newly appointed Mayor Jeremy Smith. As he concludes his one-year term as mayor, Terry reflects on the accomplishments achieved throughout 2025.
By Mark Terry
As a 25-year resident of Canyon Lake, it has been a profound privilege to serve as your mayor over the past year. I am pleased to share several key accomplishments that demonstrate the City of Canyon Lake’s continued commitment to public safety, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement for all our residents who call Canyon Lake home. Through the collective efforts of the city council, city staff, and our community partners, significant progress has been made across multiple areas of city operations.
Fiscal Stewardship and Transparency
This year, the City of Canyon Lake was awarded the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, a nationally recognized honor that reflects the city’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and excellence in financial reporting. In addition, the city implemented new financial and agenda management software, including AgendaQuick and Microix, improving procurement tracking and enhancing public access to city council materials.
Public Safety and Infrastructure Investment
The city advanced several major initiatives to enhance public safety and infrastructure. Construction of the new Canyon Lake Police Department launched, representing a significant long-term investment in public safety and city services.
The city also initiated the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) project, improving roadway safety for residents and visitors. Strategic building acquisitions were completed to support current operations and future city needs.
Policy Modernization and Operational Excellence
Throughout the year, the city undertook a comprehensive effort to modernize policies and strengthen governance practices. Key updates included revisions to the Procurement Ordinance and the adoption of several new policies. These actions ensure the city’s policies reflect current best practices while supporting efficiency, accountability, and employee safety.
Technology and Records Management Improvements
The city implemented Laserfiche, significantly improving records retention and accessibility through the digitization of all building records and ongoing conversion of finance documents. These efforts enhance institutional continuity, compliance, and operational efficiency across departments.
Community Engagement and Economic Vitality
The city expanded its communication and outreach efforts through the launch of the City Manager’s Newsletter, providing residents with regular updates on city initiatives and activities. The city also revitalized and relaunched Shop Canyon Lake, supporting local businesses and economic development, and introduced Non-Profit Spotlights at city council meetings to recognize organizations that serve our community.
Community Events and Regional Collaboration
Canyon Lake successfully hosted several well-attended community events, including the State of the City Address, Pumpkin Bash, Veterans Day, Donuts with Santa, and the Battle of the Cities Golf Tournament. In addition, the city organized a record-breaking Turkey Drive, distributing 377 turkeys to families in need.
Regionally, the city joined the Zip Code Coalition and participated in the hiring of a joint legislative lobbyist, strengthening advocacy efforts and collaboration with neighboring jurisdictions.
In Closing
In closing, as we transition into the future, I eagerly look forward to working hand in hand with our new Mayor, Jeremy Smith, and our Mayor Pro Tem, Kasey Castillo. I cannot say enough about their experience and proven leadership.
On behalf of my wife, Karen, and our entire family, it has been an immense honor to serve as your mayor, and I am so looking forward to 2026—it’s going to be another great year.
To all our Canyon Lake residents, may you cherish the holidays surrounded by your families and friends. Thank you, Canyon Lake.
Editor’s note: Terry was appointed to the council in 2022 to fill the vacated seat left by Councilman Larry Greene, who relocated out of state. Terry was subsequently elected to a four-year term in 2024. He served as mayor pro tem in 2024 and mayor in 2025. His term on the council ends in 2028.
