Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – City of Brownsville City Manager, Helen Ramirez, ICMA-CM, AICP, announced the promotion of Maribel B. Guerrero, MPA, as the new Director of Engineering and Public Works. She is the first female to lead this department of 207 employees in the City’s history. After an extensive recruitment effort for a qualified leader, Ms. Ramirez made the appointment following Ms. Guerrero’s successful service as Interim Director over the past six months.
With more than 25 years of experience in environmental compliance, infrastructure management, and public service, Ms. Guerrero has consistently delivered strong leadership and technical expertise since joining the City in 2021. She began her tenure as the Assistant Director of Engineering and Public Works, where she played a pivotal role in advancing major capital improvement projects, driving regulatory compliance, and supporting the City’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure.
“I am pleased to announce the promotion of Ms. Guerrero as the City’s Engineering and Public Works Director,” said Ms. Ramirez. “Maribel’s extensive experience, her dedication to public service, and her strong leadership over the past six months as Interim Director have demonstrated her readiness to lead the department into the future. She is an invaluable asset to our City team.”
Ms. Guerrero’s impressive background spans both public and private sectors and includes the management of environmental assessments, water and wastewater projects, and transportation initiatives. Her career has been defined by a deep commitment to innovation, collaboration, and community-focused service.
In her new role, Ms. Guerrero will oversee the activities, operations, and strategic planning for all divisions within the Engineering and Public Works Department, including Streets and
Drainage, Traffic, Landfill, Stormwater, and Environmental Compliance. She will supervise inspection of construction projects to ensure they meet all City standards and specifications. She will also lead a team of more than 125 staff members.
“I am honored and excited to continue serving the City of Brownsville in this new capacity,” said Ms. Guerrero. “Over the past six months as Interim Director, I’ve had the privilege to work alongside an exceptional team committed to building a stronger, more resilient Brownsville. I look forward to continuing this important work with a focus on delivering sustainable, innovative solutions that serve our community.”
Ms. Guerrero is known for leading with empathy, integrity, and a purpose-driven mindset. Her ability to inspire, connect, and support others has earned her deep respect throughout the City organization. Her promotion from Assistant Director to Deputy Director, and now to Director, reflects her strong leadership and alignment with Brownsville’s ONE CITY values: People, Purpose, Projects.
