Donald Shelhammer, a former Texas County presiding commissioner, has passed away.
As the county’s top administrator, he helped lead the project that resulted in the Texas County Justice Center and Texas County Jail. He advocated for two, half-cent sales tax that pay for the project on North Grand Avenue. At the time, it was one of the biggest construction projects ever completed locally.
The former Texas County Courthouse was turned into administrative offices during his tenure.
After retiring from a military career, he and his wife, Nicole, returned to the Houston area where he was raised. He became active in several civic endeavors. He served on the Texas County Memorial Hospital board of trustees.
Shelhammer, 82, devoted much time to the Houston Lions Club, winning its top honor from the organization, and served on the board that brought dial-up internet service to Texas County.
He was active in Republican politics. He lived at Raymondville.
Don also served on TCMH board, Train Internet Board, Raymondville Volunteer Fire Board and secured funding to build a new fire station for the community . I’m sure there is much more. Don will certainly be missed.