04/13/2026
Batts receives Community Builder Award
Lee Scott Masonic Lodge presented Bill Batts, a long time Somerville resident the 2026 Community Builders Award on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the Masonic Lodge in Somerville. The Grand Lodge of Texas designed the Community Builder Award to enable local Masonic Lodges to recognize outstanding non-Masons who have distinguished themselves through their service to the community, government, church or synagogue or to humanity. It seeks out those men and women who year in and year out quietly and without fanfare show devotion to their community and its people without the expectation of recognition.
Batts, a Vietnam veteran who has consistently surpassed the criteria required for this award, has worked tirelessly for over 35 years to make Somerville a better place to live. Since returning in 1990, he has promoted his “Keep the City Clean” motto and is always ready to help in Somerville and nearby areas. Besides community clean-ups, he also uses his skills to solve problems that affect his neighbors’ comfort and needs.
Bill was accompanied by several family members, who shared stories about his vital role in shaping their family's values for work and life. Rick Conner, Worshipful Master, welcomed attendees before introducing Steve McCoy, PM, to discuss the award's history, and Jack Womack, PM, who presented the honor to Bill.
Lee Scott members expressed their appreciation for Bill's service, and after the ceremony hosted a lunch to celebrate his dedicated contributions to the community.
