Trinity High Represents ... on Bedford City Council

» DMN: Teen takes his seat on Bedford City Council (Marice Richter)

Another Trinity grad moving up in the world. Chris Brown is the newest city councilmember in Bedford ... at the ripe young age of 19. That would seem to beat out Todd Smith's early start on the Euless City Council.

Despite his determination and dedication, Mr. Brown still had to overcome a lot of skepticism because of his age.

After all, he hasn't yet voted for president, held a full-time job or bought himself a beer. And he still lives in his childhood home with his mom, dad and 15-year-old sister, Katie.

But those familiar with him have looked beyond that.

"As far as I'm concerned, it doesn't matter how old you are, if you are honest and willing to do what's right for Bedford," Mayor Jim Story said. "He certainly seems to fit that.

"A lot of people maybe didn't take him seriously, but once they got to know him, they started thinking differently," Mr. Story said. "He's mature, intelligent and wise beyond his years."

Mr. Brown worked diligently on his campaign, including spending several days going door-to-door to meet voters. He also raised about $5,000 - much of it in contributions of $5 or $10 from college friends.

"I'm really proud of that because it takes a lot to get a college kid to give up money that could go for food," he said.

The results paid off, with Mr. Brown sweeping to victory in the Place 6 race with 83.7 percent of the vote. Opponent Jim Wallace, a closed-captioning editor, took 16.3 percent.