Austin Vowels was named to fill a vacant spot on the Henderson City Commisssion Tuesday afternoon.
Vowels will serve out the remainder of the term vacated when Nick Whitt resigned from the City Commission last month since he and his family have recently moved outside of the Henderson City limits.
Vowels was sworn in at Tuesday afternoon’s Henderson City Commission meeting.
Vowels served as City Commissioner from 2017 through 2024 after first being elected in 2016. During his tenure, he helped guide the City through significant community investments, strategic infrastructure improvements, economic development initiatives, and sound financial decisions that have helped position the community for continued growth.
“It was important that we appoint an individual who could step into this role with a strong understanding of city government and the responsibilities that come with serving our community,”
offered Mayor Brad Staton. “Austin’s experience as a former commissioner, his legal background, and his long-standing commitment to his hometown make him exceptionally well-qualified to serve. His knowledge and his leadership will allow him to contribute immediately as we continue advancing important City projects and initiatives.”
Commissioner Rodney Thomas said Vowels’ previous experience and dedication to Henderson made him an easy choice for the appointment.
“Austin has already demonstrated his commitment to this community through years of public service,” said Thomas. “He understands the challenges and opportunities facing our city, and I believe he’ll be able to step in on day one and continue moving Henderson forward. I think he’s a great choice for this appointment.”
Commissioner Robert Pruitt said Vowels’ qualifications, integrity, and record of public service made him the clear choice to fill the vacancy.
“Austin is exceptionally well-qualified to serve, but just as importantly, he’s a person of great character,” said Pruitt. “The people of Henderson elected him to multiple terms because they trusted his leadership and his commitment to doing what’s best for our community. That track record made this the clear decision, and I have every confidence he’ll serve our citizens well.”
Commissioner Kelsey Hargis said the Commission was united in its decision to appoint Vowels and believes his experience will allow him to make an immediate impact.
“The appointment of Austin was a decision we agreed upon unanimously,” said Hargis. “His previous service on the City Commission, combined with his proven track record as a dedicated public servant, gives him the experience needed to step into this role with confidence. I know he’ll continue working to
move Henderson forward and serve our community well.”
Vowels is the founder and managing attorney of Vowels Law PLC in Henderson. He is also a co-founder of Henderson Brewing Co. and remains active in many civic and professional organizations.
“I am honored by the confidence the Mayor and Commissioners have placed in me,” said Vowels. “It has
always been a privilege to serve the citizens of Henderson, and I look forward to working alongside the
Commission and City staff over the coming months to continue building on the progress our community
has made.
Vowels had previously served on the Henderson City Commission until 2024, when he chose not to run again. He will serve on the Henderson City Commission until the end of the year, filling out the remainder of Witt’s term.
There are six people who are vying for four spots on the next Henderson City Commission.
Those in the race include incumbents Robert Pruitt and Kelsey Hargis, as well as challengers Isaac Church, Kristy Randolph, Chris Thomas and Tom Williams. Whitt and another candidate, Cooper Beck, have dropped out in recent weeks.
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