Serving three terms as the mayor of the City of Levelland, Barbra Pinner will not be seeking a fourth term which would have made her the longest sitting mayor for Levelland.
Elected in 2015, Pinner became the first woman to serve in the position.
Coming into the position, Pinner explained how she had to learn the ins and outs of what the position entailed.
“I did not know how much I did not know until I started going to conferences and other meetings,” said Pinner. “I have learned a lot and enjoyed being a part of this for the past nine years. It has truly been a blessing.”
One of the biggest things Pinner can remember being a part of was the construction of the new fire station in 2017.
“Being part of the growth of our town has been amazing,” said Pinner. “There are so many things I have been able to be part of such as opening the landfill and getting the ball rolling for the waste water treatment plant. Even seeing what was once called the ethanol plant reopening was great as well.”
Pinner explained that while there may be varied opinions about her being at ribbon cuttings and being involved in those events it is not just for her but it is for the businesses and shows how much the city cares.
While being mayor is the priority for Pinner, she also is active in several community committees and intends on being a part of those following her finishing her last term as mayor.
“There are so many committees and organizations that need volunteers to serve and when I am done serving as mayor I can be a part of those because I absolutely enjoy being involved with this community,” explained Pinner.
After many prayers and discussions with her husband Jerry Pinner, they felt that her time to step down was now as the couple are in their 70’s.
Pinner has openly endorsed current Councilwoman Breann Buxkemper who is running for the mayoral position for Levelland.
Pinner added that her candidacy also played a role in her feeling comfortable moving forward with the next chapter in her life.
“I really wanted to be the longest running mayor and being the first woman to sit in the position has been great,” said Pinner. “Serving in this position has been very rewarding and it has certainly had its trying times such as COVID-19.”
Pinner thanked the leadership and hard work of current Hockley County Judge Sharla Baldridge and Levelland and Hockley County Emergency Coordinator Cole Kirkland for helping the city work through the pandemic.
“I feel blessed being on the committee when we hired Albert Garcia as the Levelland Police Chief,” said Pinner. “He is the best in the state and I think our current City Manager James Fisher will help continue to lead the city in a positive way.”
Pinner has been passionate about keeping the city clean through community efforts and will continue to be a part of the city wide cleanups held.
“I think it is very important for me to be seen during these cleanups because I want to set an example,” said Pinner. “I do not want people to think I need a pat on the back, but I want to show the community that their city leaders are willing to work to help make the city the best version is can be. We have had several members of the city go out and lend a helping hand during cleanups and it is important to show that we care to encourage others to do so.”
Pinner understands that criticisms a part of the position as not everyone feels the same way about certain topics or actions.
However, she has continued to feel confident in her position because her sole objective has been to better the City of Levelland.
“I have had numerous comment or call about things they criticize,” said Pinner. “Things do bother me, but I cannot take it personally.”
Moving forward, Pinner is excited to spend more time with family and traveling with Jerry.
Between children and grandchildren, Pinner is eager to spend time decompressing and supporting her children.