Councilmember Place 6

Councilmember Roland Goveas

Roland's journey took an exciting turn when he made the decision to relocate to Texas in 1992. In 1995, he started Synetics Computers Inc., (a Managed IT services company) and in 1998 he settled in Richland Hills, a vibrant city that would become his home and the center of his endeavors.

Roland got his bachelor’s degree (B-COM) in India. Driven by his entrepreneurial spirit, Roland expanded his business interests beyond IT services to the real estate sector. He currently manages three thriving real estate companies.

In addition to his professional achievements, Roland has made significant contributions to his community. From 2011 to 2017 and again from 2018 to 2020, he served as a council member, actively participating in the governance and decision-making processes that shape the City of Richland Hills. Roland's dedication to community development was further exemplified through his involvement with various boards and his role as the chair of the City's inaugural 4th of July Hometown Parade. He has also served on the Charter Review Committee twice, demonstrating his commitment to ensuring effective governance and transparency.

Roland's interests and passions extend beyond the business and civic spheres. He has a deep love for travel, exploring both domestic destinations within the USA and venturing abroad to experience different cultures. Roland is an avid Pickleball player, finding joy and camaraderie in the sport. Additionally, he has a keen interest in space and rocket technology and staying up to date with the latest developments in this fascinating field.

Current Committees

  • Infrastructure Committee

Current Boards

  • Building Board of Appeals
  • Crime Control and Prevention District (CCPD)
  • Richland Hills Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone No. 1

Duties of Councilmembers

Per the City of Richland Hills Home Rule Charter (PDF), the duties of City of Richland Hills councilmembers are as follows:

Sec. 6.03. - Powers and duties of City Council.

The powers and duties herein conferred upon the City Council shall include but shall not be limited to the following:

(1) To appoint and remove the City Manager, City Attorney, Municipal Judge and relief Municipal Judges, and other such employees required by state law to be appointed by the City Council.

(2) To establish other administrative departments and distribute the work of divisions and to abolish or consolidate said departments and divisions.

(3) To adopt the budget of the City.

(4) To authorize the issuance of:

A. Bonds by a bond ordinance;

B. Certificates of obligation subject to the notice, petition and election provisions as provided within V.T.C.A, Local Government Code §271041, the Certificate of Obligation Act.

(5) To inquire into the conduct of any office, department, or agency of the City and make investigation as to municipal affairs.

(6) To appoint all commissions, boards, committees, task forces and/or appointed groups to assist the Council in the performance of its duties and responsibilities, such powers subject to the restrictions of the Charter and the laws of the State of Texas.

(7) To adopt plats.

(8) To adopt and modify the official map of the City.

(9) To regulate, license, and fix the charges or fares made by any person owning, obtaining or controlling any vehicle of any character used for carrying of passengers for hire on the public streets and alleys of the City.

(10) To provide for the establishment and designations of fire limits and to prescribe the kind and character of buildings or structures or improvements to be erected therein, and provide for the condemnation of dangerous structures or buildings or dilapidated buildings calculated to increase the fire hazard, and the manner of their removal or destruction.

(11) To fix the salaries and compensation for the non-elective City officers and employees.

(12) To provide for sanitary sewer and water system.

(13) May regulate burial grounds, cemeteries, and crematories and condemn and close any such burial grounds, cemeteries, and crematories in the thickly settled portions of the City when public interest or public health may demand, and may regulate interment of the deceased.