Incoming Webb County Judge

Jerry Garza has spent much of his life at the intersection of community, communication, business, and public service, but if there is one thread that runs through his career, it is a belief in people and a commitment to making a difference in the community he calls home.

A lifelong Laredoan, Jerry began his career in public service at a young age, eventually becoming the youngest elected Webb County Commissioner at the age of 29. Along the way, he also had the privilege of spending time in the classroom, teaching government and speech at Laredo Community College. It was an experience that gave him a lasting appreciation for the important and often underappreciated work educators do not simply teaching a subject, but helping young people see possibilities for themselves and their futures.

He later spent nearly two decades in television journalism across different television markets in South Texas, including as a news anchor and News Director, where he had a front-row seat to the people, challenges, and stories that have shaped South Texas.

Today, Jerry is a financial advisor and real estate broker, working with individuals, families and businesses on some of the decisions that matter most to their futures. His work ranges from retirement and investment planning to residential, commercial and investment real estate, as well as helping businesses identify sites and opportunities for growth and expansion. For Jerry, it’s not simply about managing money or closing a transaction; it’s about helping people build something, protect what they’ve worked for, and plan confidently for what comes next.

Throughout those different chapters, Jerry has remained deeply involved in civic and community life.  His service has taken many forms, from serving as a Planning and Zoning Commissioner and as an elected member of the Webb County Appraisal District Board of Directors, to serving as President of the South Texas County Judges and Commissioners Association. His involvement has also extended beyond the region through service on the board of NASCO, where he has had the opportunity to engage in broader conversations about trade, transportation, infrastructure and the important role South Texas plays in North American commerce.

Service organizations have also played an important role in that journey, and Rotary in particular has long been close to Jerry’s heart. He was the charter president of the Next Generation Rotary Club and has been deeply involved in Rotary over the years.  Faith also plays an important part in Jerry’s life; he is an active parishioner at St. Patrick Church, where he serves as a lector and member of the church council.

Most recently, his commitment brought him back to public service. In May, Jerry was elected Webb County Judge, beginning the next chapter of a journey that, in many ways, has brought him full circle.

But beyond the titles and professional accomplishments, Jerry is most proud of the life he has built with his wife, Maritza, and their four children. He is a husband, father, businessman, communicator, and public servant who believes that relationships matter, that there is always something new to learn, and that some of the best ideas begin with a good conversation.