Appointed in 2009 as the Harris County representative to the Board, Russell Rau's history with 9-1-1 expands over 30 years. Mr. Rau had the opportunity to serve as a key member on the staff of then-Harris County Commissioner Tom Bass in 1976. He organized a community effort that led to the first emergency number system in the State of Texas. The effort included the passage of legislation to provide funding for the system, coordination of more than 35 local governments that participated in the system, and a successful public education campaign that led to voter approval of 89%. He later worked to pass statewide legislation to bring 9-1-1 service to the entire State of Texas. Governor Mark White appointed him to the legislatively established Texas Advisory Commission on Emergency Communications.

During his tenure on the Commission, the structure and funding mechanisms were developed that continue to provide 9-1-1 service to the citizens of Texas to this day. Prior to his appointment as the Harris County representative, Mr. Rau was a member of the Board of Managers as one of the City of Houston's representatives serving from 1985 to 2005. All together, Mr. Rau has served on the Board of Managers for over twenty years

He has worked in the field of correctional facility development since the mid 80's, and is the president of C3 Corrections, L.L.C. His experience in the private sector has given Mr. Rau a strong orientation to cost effective design / build development concepts as well as project financing alternatives. Additionally, prior years of government service have given him an understanding and appreciation for the governmental decision making. His commitment to community also includes service on numerous local community efforts and committees.