Upcoming 2025 Public Officials & Awards Reception

This special member only event honors public and elected officials, award recipients, and impactful projects that have made a meaningful and significant impact in our region!

WHA’s Star of Excellence recognizes individuals who are not members of the Association, but whose work complements our own to achieve a shared vision. We honor them as shining examples of the leadership and determination that help create meaningful experiences and opportunities throughout the greater West Houston region and beyond, and we are proud to recognize John Blount as the 2025 Star of Excellence.

John began his career in public service as an officer in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, gaining invaluable experience in leadership and infrastructure management. He later served as Harris County Engineer, overseeing one of the nation’s largest county engineering departments, with more than 766 employees and a $1 billion annual budget. During Hurricane Harvey, John coordinated inspections and repairs across thousands of miles of roads, bridges, and county facilities, while leading buyouts and demolitions in flood-damaged areas. He went beyond jurisdictional boundaries to serve the community, setting up a temporary hospital at NRG twice and personally ensuring accurate, unbiased information on storm impacts reached both the public and elected leaders. John championed stricter floodplain and development standards, accelerated critical flood control projects, and encouraged municipalities to adopt higher standards to access the county’s $2.5 billion flood bond. He goes above and beyond to ensure the job is not just done, but done well—practical, goal-oriented, service-minded, and firm but fair. Through his leadership, John strengthened Harris County’s resilience while advancing the Association’s mission of sustainable infrastructure, flood protection, and regional collaboration. Our community is fortunate that his heart of service guided his work and left a lasting impact. 

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WHA’s Compass Award recognizes members that lead efforts and provide direction to the organization that inspires sustainable, quality growth.

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Sustainability Stars recognizes and encourages sustainable practices in land development and infrastructure, focusing on Investigation, Investment, Integration, Inspiration, and Innovation.

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* * * This event is reserved for WHA Members only. * * *

Thank you for your understanding.
For questions, please email ryann@westhouston.org