Eager to quell criticism, the Texas A&M University System has provided additional information regarding a $4 million renovation to the Reed House, which serves as the residence for the system chancellor.
A system spokesperson told Texas Scorecard that a new guest structure is being added to the property alongside a full renovation of the main residence. The renovation work includes updates to all internal and external aspects of the structure, notably adding a commercial kitchen that is “needed to host events.”
The new guest structure is designed to temporarily house important visitors to the system, such as governmental leaders, legislators, dignitaries, and visiting donors. The structure itself consists of two bedrooms, bathrooms, and a shared sitting area.
Addressing rumors circulating around A&M, the spokesman explicitly noted that the guest structure will not be used to house members of the chancellor’s family.
Regarding the finances, the current renovations are being paid for with non-state institutional funds. TAMUS also clarified that no significant renovation work was conducted on the property during the final five years of former Chancellor John Sharp’s tenure.
The chancellor’s residency at the Reed House is a mandatory condition of employment.
As part of this requirement, the system is obligated to pay for all maintenance and operating expenses of the residence. Chancellor Glenn Hegar’s employment agreement specifically included a provision for renovations to the property between Sharp and Hegar’s tenures.
Hegar moved into the property when he assumed the position last July. Sharp had previously lived at the property while serving as chancellor from 2011 to 2025.
The Texas A&M University System is overseen by a Board of Regents that is appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Texas Senate. Robert Albritton of Fort Worth is the current board chairman.
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